Apple, founded in 1976 as Apple Computer Company, is a perennial leader in global market capitalization.
Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne founded Apple on April 1, 1976. The company first became known for personal computers, including the Apple II and the Macintosh. It later reinvented itself around consumer devices and services, with the iPod, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and App Store becoming central parts of its business.
Apple's market capitalization has repeatedly placed it near the top of global rankings because investors value both its enormous revenue base and the strength of its ecosystem. Hardware sales generate large volumes, while services, accessories, and software create additional connections with customers.
The company has changed names and legal structures over time, so historical sources may call it Apple Computer, Inc. Apple Computer changed its name to Apple Inc. in 2007, reflecting the company's expansion beyond computers. That name change occurred in the same year Apple introduced the original iPhone.