Apple marked its 50th anniversary today, reflecting on five decades since its founding and celebrating the milestone through a series of messages and events over recent weeks.
As part of the celebration, CEO Tim Cook published a commemorative letter titled “50 Years of Thinking Different” on Apple’s website. In the message, Cook referenced Apple’s long-standing philosophy of innovation and creativity, echoing the company’s iconic “Think Different” campaign from the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Cook emphasized Apple’s forward-looking mindset, noting that the company is “more focused on building tomorrow than remembering yesterday,” while still taking time to recognize the people who have shaped its success. He also thanked the millions of customers and users who have contributed to Apple’s growth over the decades.
The anniversary messaging reflects Apple’s broader theme of innovation-driven progress, highlighting how the company continues to position itself around future technologies rather than solely its historical achievements.
Apple celebrated its 50th anniversary with a wide range of global events, internal gatherings, and commemorative initiatives held over the past several weeks.
Global surprise performances and events
In the second half of March, Apple hosted surprise concerts and activations around the world. Highlights included:
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A performance by Alicia Keys at Apple’s store in New York’s Grand Central Terminal
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A live set by Mumford & Sons outside Apple’s UK headquarters at Battersea Power Station in London
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A Shanghai Fashion Week runway installation at Apple Jing’an, where models walked a catwalk outside the store
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A visual art display projected onto the Sydney Opera House sails using iPad-generated artwork
Apple Park and Nasdaq celebration
Senior leadership also gathered at Apple Park to ring the Nasdaq opening bell on Tuesday morning. Executives in attendance included CEO Tim Cook, along with key leaders across operations, services, retail, hardware engineering, design, and finance.
Internal Apple Park installations
Inside Apple Park, Apple set up several exhibits showcasing the evolution of its product design, including a retrospective display of iMac models released between 1998 and 2021.
Employees also received commemorative merchandise for the milestone, including a 50th anniversary T-shirt, a limited-edition poster, and a “50” pin.
Employee celebration concert
As part of internal celebrations, employees were invited to a special performance by Paul McCartney, held under the rainbow arches at Apple Park.
Website and digital tribute
Apple also updated its homepage with an animated tribute and released a retrospective video marking the company’s 50-year journey.
While Apple has not announced any special product launches tied directly to the anniversary, the company’s celebrations have focused heavily on global experiences, employee recognition, and reflection on its history as the milestone comes to a close.