Apple was founded April 1, 1976 — making April 2026 its 50th anniversary. Retailers are offering record-low prices on current Apple devices to celebrate. The MacBook Pro M5 is available at its lowest-ever price. Apple Watch deals from $15.99. And the MacBook Air M4 (Apple's best-selling laptop ever) is seeing discounts ahead of tariff-driven price increases.
Apple's 50-Year Journey — By the Numbers
Founded in a California garage on April 1, 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne (who sold his 10% stake for $800 — now worth ~$200 billion), Apple has become the world's most valuable company. Key milestones: 1984 Macintosh ($2,495, ~$8,000 today). 2001 iPod (transformed music). 2007 iPhone (transformed mobile computing and created the app economy). 2023-2026: Vision Pro, M-series Silicon, and Apple Intelligence transforming personal computing again. Current market cap: approximately $3.5 trillion.
Best Apple Deals Right Now — April 2026
| Product | Regular Price | Current Deal | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| MacBook Pro M5 14" | $1,999 | Record low available | Check current deals |
| MacBook Air M4 13" | $1,099 | Anniversary discount | Check current deals |
| Apple Watch Series 10 | $399 | From $15.99 accessories | Various |
| iPhone 17 | $999 | Trade-in deals | Up to $400 off |
| AirPods 4 | $129 | Frequently on sale $99 | $30 off |
What Apple Has Planned for Its 50th
Apple has not made a major anniversary announcement but industry observers note several signals: the company's retail stores globally have subtle anniversary branding. Apple's Marketing VP confirmed "significant product moments" in 2026 to mark the milestone. Expectations: potential special edition Apple Watch in original Mac colors (beige/platinum), a commemorative Mac mini or iMac campaign, and expanded Apple Intelligence features. Tim Cook has referenced the anniversary in investor communications, calling it a "moment to reflect and accelerate."
Why Now Is the Best Time to Buy Apple Products
Two factors make April 2026 an unusually good time to buy: 1) 50th anniversary promotions from Apple-authorized retailers creating discounts on current-generation products. 2) Trump tariffs will likely affect the cost of new Apple products ordered after existing inventory depletes — meaning current stock at current prices may be the last before a price increase. MacBook Air M4 in particular is expected to see pricing adjustments in iPhone 18 / Mac refresh cycle later in 2026.
Apple 50th — FAQ
Apple anniversary questions