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5 Lost Computer Companies That Helped Build The Tech World
By THARINDU DIAS
NeXT
Founded by Steve Jobs in 1985, NeXT played a pivotal role in technology and computer innovation with its object-oriented programming and graphical user interfaces.
Apple acquired NeXT for $400 million in 1997, eventually leading to the creation of Mac OS X and transformation of Apple’s computing ecosystem.
BBN Technologies
BBN Technologies is an American research and development company that left an impact in the field, including playing a crucial role in using the “@” symbol in email.
Its tech contributions reached a new height with Interface Message Processors (IMPs). These IMPs were instrumental in the history of ARPANET, the precursor to the modern internet.
Atari
While it’s more remembered than some on this list, Atari is a company beginning to fade from public consciousness with each passing day.
The company pioneered arcade games and home video game consoles. Atari led the transition to home consoles and expanded the gaming market to families and children.
Sun Microsystems
Tech company Sun Microsystems played a crucial role in computing, offering computers, software, and IT services. One of Sun’s achievements was Java’s development.
Sun introduced innovations like the UltraSPARC processor. The company was committed to open-source movements and made early advancements in cloud computing and virtualization.
Commodore Int.
Known for its creations like the highly successful Commodore 64, Commodore International was instrumental in shaping the home computer industry.
The C64’s popularity sparked a new era of gaming and digital creativity, and it paved the way for the development of the gaming industry and modern game design.