Apple Power Mac G4 Classified as Weapon, Export Banned in 1999
In 1999, the United States Pentagon placed an export ban on Apple's Power Mac G4 400 MHz computer, restricting its sale to 50 countries. This decision notably classified the personal computer as a weapon, marking a significant first for the industry. Apple co-founder Steve Jobs reportedly utilized this unusual government designation as a marketing advantage for the product.

The Apple Power Mac G4 400 MHz personal computer was subject to an export ban by the United States Pentagon in 1999. This prohibition prevented the sale of the computer to 50 countries upon its launch.
This action marked a notable moment in the tech industry, as the Power Mac G4 became the first personal computer to be officially classified as a weapon. The Pentagon's designation highlighted the machine's processing capabilities, which were considered advanced for its time.
According to reports, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs leveraged this unique government restriction for marketing purposes. The classification as a "weapon" inadvertently provided a distinctive promotional angle for the Power Mac G4.
(Source: Tom's Hardware)
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