Apple II Division Ignored at Annual Meeting

In the early 1980s, the Apple II division played a crucial role in the financial success of Apple Inc., contributing approximately 85% of the company's sales. This division was pivotal in establishing Apple as a leader in the personal computer market, with the Apple II series being one of the first highly successful mass-produced microcomputer products. Despite its significant contributions, the Apple II division was often overlooked in corporate discussions and strategic planning. This lack of recognition became evident during the company's annual meeting, where the Apple II division and its employees were not mentioned at all. This omission was not an isolated incident but rather a recurring theme that frustrated key figures within the company, including co-founder Steve Wozniak, who was instrumental in the development of the Apple II. Wozniak's concerns highlighted a growing disconnect between the company's leadership and the foundational products that had driven its early success.