In the early 90s, the digital camera market was still in its infancy, with few models available to consumers. However, Apple sought to change this with the launch of its QuickTake 100, which hit the shelves in 1994.
Unveiled at MacWorld in Tokyo on February 17, 1994, the Apple QuickTake 100 was one of the first digital cameras aimed at a consumer market. With a price starting at $749, it was an affordable option for those who wanted to take the leap into digital photography.
In the fast-paced world of technology, milestones often go unnoticed as innovations come and go. However, there are moments that mark a turning point in an industry, and one such moment occurred in 1994 when Apple introduced the QuickTake 100. It was a groundbreaking step towards making digital photography accessible to the masses.
The QuickTake 100 was more than just a digital camera; it was a game-changer. Designed with the consumer in mind, it boasted a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. Even those unfamiliar with digital technology could easily navigate its features, making it the perfect entry point for photography enthusiasts.
Equipped with a 24-bit CCD image sensor and a fixed-focus lens, the QuickTake 100 produced images with a resolution of up to 640 x 480 pixels. While this may seem modest by today’s standards, it was a significant achievement in the early 90s. Users marveled at the clarity and quality of the images captured by this innovative device.
Furthermore, the camera’s flash ensured that moments could be immortalized with the perfect lighting, even in challenging conditions. The QuickTake 100’s ability to take up to 120 pictures on a single set of batteries impressed users and photographers alike.
Apple’s dedication to innovation didn’t go unnoticed. In 1995, the Apple QuickTake 100 was awarded the prestigious Product Design Award, a testament to its seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics. Initial reviews were overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising the camera for its ease of use and the impressive quality of images it produced.
To cater to a wide range of users, Apple released two versions of the QuickTake 100—one for Macintosh computers and another for Windows users. This strategic move opened doors for countless photography enthusiasts to experience the joys of digital imaging, regardless of their preferred operating system.
Despite its initial success and critical acclaim, the QuickTake 100 was ultimately discontinued on May 8, 1995, merely a year after its release. This decision, however, does not diminish its significance in shaping the digital photography landscape. The QuickTake 100 remains a cherished piece of technology history—a window into the early days of digital photography.
Fast forward 30 years, and the QuickTake 100 still stands as an essential part of Apple’s storied history. It may have been short-lived, but its impact on the industry was immense. The QuickTake line paved the way for future innovations and inspired a wave of digital cameras from other renowned brands.
Collectors and tech enthusiasts continue to treasure the QuickTake 100, recognizing its role in revolutionizing consumer digital photography. While Apple’s QuickTake line may be a thing of the past, its spirit lives on in modern devices and serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving world of technology.
In the ever-changing landscape of technology, it’s essential to acknowledge the pioneers who set the stage for today’s innovations. The Apple QuickTake 100 was a stepping stone that led to the digital photography revolution, and its legacy will forever be etched in the history of consumer electronics.
QuickTake 100 Details
| Introduced | February 17, 1994 |
| Released | June 20, 1994 |
| Discontinued | May 8, 1995 |
| Model Number | Unknown |
| Original Price | $749 |
| Weight | 1.0 Ibs. 1.224 KG |
| Dimensions | 2.2″ H x 5.3″ W x 6.1″ D 1.87-4.06 cm H x 47.49 cm W x 19.55 cm D |
System Requirements
- Macintosh with Motorola 68020 processor or faster
- System Software 7.1 or later
Camera Specs
| Image | 24-bit |
| Resolution | Up to 640 x 480 pixels |
| Optics | Fixed-focus lens with flash |
| Lens Focal Length | 8 mm |
| Range | 4 feet to infinity |
| Shutter Speed | 1/30 to 1/175 of a second |
Media
| Photo Formats | PICT QuickTake |
Connections
| Audio | None |
| Ports | 1 – RS-232C |
Power
| Power | 120 image takes with 3 rechargeable AA NiCd batteries Supports three 1.5 AA, R6P, LR-6 or SUM-3 NiCad or lithium batteries |
Further Reading and References
- Apple QuickTake – Wikipedia
- Apple QuickTake 100 (1994) – Digitalkamera Museum
- Apple QuickTake 100 – All-TIME 100 Gadgets – TIME
- Apple QuickTake 100 Camera – Mass made soul
- Retro Apple: The QuickTake 100 digital camera – Engadget
- Apple QuickTake 100 photos – CNET
- Throwback Thursday: Apple QuickTake cameras, pioneers of consumer digital photography – DPReview
- Apple QuickTake 100 retro review – Cameralabs
- Apple’s 29-Year-Old Landmark QuickTake 100 Camera Falters in 2023 – PetaPixel
Disclaimer: The data presented in this article is under continuous development and has been manually collected from various sources based on their availability. The author of this article may revise this dataset as additional research is conducted and reviewed. Please note that the information is provided “as is” and “as available” without express or implied warranties. The author cannot be held responsible for any omissions, inaccuracies, or errors in the published information. Any warranties relating to this information are hereby disclaimed.
Last updated: July 28, 2023
