Bill Atkinson, a pivotal figure in Apple's history and crucial to the development of the Macintosh, has died at 74 from pancreatic cancer. Known as Apple employee number 51, Atkinson was instrumental in several key projects, including the Lisa computer and HyperCard, setting the stage for future technologies like the iPad. His work had a lasting impact on personal computing. Following his passing, tributes from figures like Apple CEO Tim Cook and John Gruber celebrated his visionary contributions and unmatched programming prowess, while Atkinson himself reflected on his fulfilling life before his death.
Atkinson’s contributions included the Macintosh, Lisa computer, QuickDraw, Magic Slate, and HyperCard, significantly impacting the evolution of personal computing.
Apple CEO Tim Cook honored Atkinson as "a true visionary" whose creativity and work on the Mac will always inspire the tech community.
John Gruber stated that with no exaggeration, Atkinson "may well have been the best computer programmer who ever lived," highlighting his exceptional talent.
Atkinson, who passed away at 74, expressed contentment with his life, stating he had "already led an amazing and wonderful life" despite his illness.
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