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The term "personal computer" predates the IBM PC by a few years, and was generally a synonym with "home computer" (which Apple computers also were.) For instan
by stametseater 4y ago
The term "personal computer" predates the IBM PC by a few years, and was generally a synonym with "home computer" (which Apple computers also were.)
For instance, the TRS-80 was not an "IBM compatible PC", but was advertised as a personal computer. When these terms were new, they weren't yet technical jargon with subtle meanings. "Personal computer" meant simply a computer intended for personal use.
- TuringNYC 4y agoThat might have been the case at one point, and perhaps again, now, but i've see PCs to not include Macs in common usage for decades. Here is one example directly from Intel: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/tech-tips-and-tricks/pc-vs-mac-the-big-debate.html https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/tech-tips-and-tricks... Mac* vs. PC: Choose What’s Right for You When it comes to the choice between a Mac or PC, selecting a device that offers the features and flexibility you need is what matters most. Another example: https://woz-u.com/blog/pc-vs-mac-whats-best-for-you/ https://woz-u.com/blog/pc-vs-mac-whats-best-for-you/ PC vs Mac: What’s Best for You? By Woz U|August 4th, 2022|Woz U
- stametseater 4y agoYes I know, I'm speaking about where the terms came from originally, since you mentioned 'historically.'
- hbn 4y agoI thought a lot of modern people's distinction between PCs and Macs came from Apple's own marketing, like the "get a Mac" ads - "I'm a Mac, and I'm a PC" With the idea being, "a PC is that old thing you've been using that constantly causes you grief. We're selling you something in an entirely different category."
- viridian 4y agoI think Mac v. PC as a tribal dividing line has largely been replaced by PC v. Phone, given that most of the population no longer interacts with computers outside of work at all any more.