Apple logo design: from rainbow to monochrome, evolution and changing times

Apple’s iconic Apple logo is one of the most well-known trademarks in the world. This simple yet recognizable logo has undergone many evolutions, from rainbow to monochrome, witnessing the changes of the times and the development of Apple. This article will give you a detailed introduction to the history and evolution of Apple’s logo design.

The birth of the first-generation rainbow logo

In 1977, Ron Wyant, one of the founders of Apple, commissioned Robert Janis to design the first-generation rainbow logo. The logo consists of a bitten apple shape with stripes in six colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. This design implies that Apple’s products will bring users a rich and colorful experience.

The first-generation rainbow logo was widely used on Apple’s early products, such as Apple II and Macintosh. It became the symbol of Apple and one of the most famous trademarks in the computer industry at the time.

The launch of the second-generation simplified version of the logo

In 1998, Apple launched the second-generation simplified version of the logo. This new logo retains the apple shape of the first-generation rainbow logo, but changes the rainbow stripes to a single gradient color. This change made the logo more concise and modern, in line with the requirements of the design trends at the time.

The second-generation simplified version of the logo first appeared on iMac G3, and was gradually used on other Apple products. This version of the logo marks Apple's entry into a new era, and also indicates that Apple's products will pay more attention to simple and stylish design.

The birth of the third-generation monochrome logo

In 2001, Apple launched the third-generation monochrome logo. This version of the logo completely removes the rainbow stripes, leaving only a simple black apple shape. This change makes the logo simpler, clearer and easier to recognize.

The third-generation monochrome logo first appeared on the iPod and was gradually used on other Apple products. This version of the logo marks Apple’s further emphasis on simplicity and sophistication in product design, and also reflects Apple’s leadership in technology and design.

The launch of the fourth-generation flat logo

In 2013, Apple launched the fourth-generation flat logo. This version of the logo has been slightly adjusted based on the third-generation monochrome logo, making the Apple shape flatter and more three-dimensional.

The fourth-generation flat logo first appeared in the iOS7 operating system and was gradually used on other Apple products. This version of the logo reflects Apple’s continuous pursuit and innovation of design, and is also in line with the trend of flat design at the time.