Early Apple Computer Made in Steve Job's Garage, Signed by Steve Wozniak Sells at Auction for $223,000

One of Apple's earliest personal computers, the Apple-1, which was signed by the company's co-founder Steve Wozniak, has successfully fetched over $223,000 at an auction.

According to the Associated Press, Boston-based RR Auction conducted the auction, and the Apple-1 was presented in a fully operational state, complete with a custom case featuring a built-in keyboard. The sale marked the closure of the auction on Thursday.

Apple-1 Computer Created in Steve Jobs' Garage

Originally crafted in the confines of Steve Jobs' garage in Los Altos, California, between 1976 and 1977, approximately 200 units of the Apple-1 were manufactured.

This innovative creation played a pivotal role in the company's inception. And Apple, having recently attained a remarkable market valuation of $3 trillion in June, stands as the first publicly traded entity to achieve such a financial milestone.

Initially offered for sale at $666, the Apple-1 was projected to fetch around $200,000, as estimated by RR Auction. This particular Apple-1 unit bore the signature "Woz," a testament to its connection with Steve Wozniak. Wozniak himself affixed the signature during an event hosted by Bryant University in 2017.

The computer changed hands in 1980 when it was sold at a computer enthusiast gathering in Framingham, Massachusetts. Throughout the 1980s, it remained in active use.

Earlier this year, Apple expert Corey Cohen undertook the task of restoring it to a functional state. According to RR Auction, the proud new owner of this piece of technological history wishes to remain anonymous.

Handwritten Ad for Apple-1 Computer

The auction also witnessed the sale of an original handwritten advertisement for the Apple-1 computer, authored by Steve Jobs. This piece fetched a noteworthy price of almost $176,000.

Additionally, Apple enthusiasts acquired Apple company check No. 2, dated March 19, 1976, and signed by both Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak for more than $135,000.

In related news, Apple recently issued a cautionary advisory, urging iPhone users to avoid sleeping while their devices are charging.

The warning stems from the potential heat generated during the charging process, raising the risk of discomfort or even harm if prolonged contact occurs between the device, charging cables, chargers, and the user's skin.

Apple's latest iPhone user manual underscores the importance of exercising prudence and steering clear of scenarios where the charging device or power adapter remains in continuous contact with the skin.

The caution extends to situations such as placing iPhones under pillows, blankets, or even beneath the user's body while charging.

"Use common sense to avoid situations where your skin is in contact with a device or power adapter while it is running or connected to a power outlet for a long time," Apple's manual advises.

Given the composition of iPhones incorporating metal, glass, and plastic alongside delicate electronic components, the company underscores the significance of responsible handling to avert potential damage, overheating, or injuries resulting from misuse or accidents.