Learn about the history and development of Apple’s current Mac operating system, macOS, formerly known as Mac OS X until 2011 and OS X until 2016. Initially created as a project to replace the “original” Mac OS, the current version of macOS is a Unix operating system that was created at NeXT in the 1980s until Apple acquired the business in early 1997.
The Evolution of macOS
Marked as “version 10” of the Mac OS (Roman number “X”), macOS differs significantly from Mac OS 9 in terms of both its codebase and user interface. Despite the significant change, versions up to 10.4 had a compatibility layer to run Mac OS 9 and associated programs to help users and developers transition.
macOS was originally made available in 1999 as Mac OS X Server 1.0, without the distinctive Aqua user interface, but with the technologies Apple purchased from NeXT. Mac OS X 10.0, the desktop version for common users, was released in March 2001. Since then, there have been various desktop and server editions of macOS developed. The server administration tools are now sold as an add-on for macOS Server, which is no longer accessible as an independent operating system as of Mac OS X 10.7 Lion.
The Latest macOS Versions
The macOS Server app was deprecated in April 2022 and is no longer compatible with macOS versions higher than macOS 12 Monterey. However, the majority of releases of Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard have been recognized as Unix systems complying with the Single Unix Specification starting with the Intel build.
Summary
macOS, formerly known as Mac OS X, is a Unix operating system that was created at NeXT in the 1980s until it was acquired by Apple in 1997. Initially meant to replace “original” Mac OS, macOS differs significantly from Mac OS 9 in terms of both its codebase and user interface. There have been various desktop and server editions of macOS developed, and server administration tools are now available as add-ons for macOS. The macOS Server app was deprecated in April 2022 and is no longer compatible with macOS versions above macOS 12 Monterey.
FAQ
What is macOS?
macOS, formerly known as Mac OS X until 2011 and OS X until 2016, is Apple’s current operating system for its Macintosh computers. It is a Unix-based operating system that was created at NeXT in the 1980s.
What was the original Mac operating system?
The original operating system that was employed in Macintosh computers since they were first introduced in 1984 was a direct ancestor of Mac OS, which was replaced by macOS.
What is the latest macOS version?
The latest macOS version is macOS 12 Monterey.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the evolution of macOS is crucial if you are a Mac user or developer. The history and development of macOS span over 25 years, and each version has its own unique features. As a result, knowing the different editions and versions of macOS will help you make the most of your Mac experience.
