Mac OS 8.1 was the last version that could run on a '68K' processor (the 68040). As Apple introduced computers with PowerPC hardware, the OS was ported to support this architecture as well. VersionsĮarly versions of the Mac OS were compatible only with Motorola 68000-based Macintoshes. The user's involvement in an upgrade of the operating system was also minimized to running an installer, or simply replacing system files, the simplicity of which again differentiated the product from other offerings. The core of the system software was held in ROM, with updates (which would override ROM-resident portions in RAM) typically provided free of charge by Apple dealers on floppy disk. This would differentiate it from devices using other operating environments, such as MS-DOS machines, which were more technically challenging to operate.

The intention was that the product would thus be more user-friendly and so more easily mastered. Tasks that on other products required a more explicit working knowledge of an operating system would on a Macintosh be accomplished by intuitive mouse gestures and manipulation of graphical control panels. 10 Mac OS on non Apple-labeled computersįrom the beginning, Apple deliberately sought to minimize by design the user's conceptual awareness of the operating system as such.

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