News, info, and opinion by Mac users, for Mac users.

August 9, 2007

hardware

Goodbye Apple, hello command

Posted Aug. 9, ’07, 5:14 AM PT by Derik DeLong
Category | Hardware

Command key In the early days of my computer education, I used LogoWriter on an Apple II computer. Important hotkeys used both open Apple and closed Apple. I found that nomenclature a little embarrassing, so by the time I’d moved up to Macs, I was jumping at the chance to call it “command”. Despite the symbol’s pervasive use throughout the Mac OS, many users have no idea that the cloverleaf is properly called command. I die a little inside when I have to call it open Apple. I know it’s nostalgic for some, but even Apple has decided to call it quits.

That’s right, the latest keyboard has dropped the Apple symbol from the command key, leaving only the cloverleaf and the word… wait for it… command. I’m ecstatic about the change. New users will immediately know what more experienced users mean by command and the “open Apple” nomenclature can be retired. Onward and upward.


7 Comments

Tony Thomas said:

At least, I can still call it the "cloverleaf" key.

August 9, 2007 7:15 AM
Tim said:

Wow, you really clung onto the old ways! I haven't heard "Open Apple" since the solid one was dumped for the outlined versions. All I've heard is "Apple key" or "Command."

In high school, on Mac Pluses, we didn't know what the symbol meant so we all called it the "Squirrely key."

August 9, 2007 7:24 AM
Fletcher said:

The old Mac Plus keyboards didn't have the Apple logo, just the cloverleaf. We actually called it the "Control" key. Then, Apple went and added a "Ctrl" key and the Apple logos. Anyway, I think it is nice to see that key finally getting a name.

August 9, 2007 8:13 AM
Roberto said:

Never mind the missing Apple key, what's with the BLACK Apple logo?

To the Chinese and Japanese, black means death. Guess Steve Jobs is not into Zen as much as people say.

August 10, 2007 12:05 AM
ch said:

The "clover leaf" symbol is actually a "place of interest" sign used in Scandinavian road signs.

August 10, 2007 7:22 AM
eagleroc Author Profile Page said:

I shouldn't have let this pass without comment earlier as this will probably wither on the vine - but, here goes...

With the loss of the Apple key, doesn't anyone think Apple may be prepping to sell the keyboard (and mighty mouse) to PC users? And, why not! They have been releasing new hardware lately that aims squarely at cross-platform compatibility. Apple TV, Airport Extreme... I'm surprised I haven't see this thought mentioned anywhere yet. Thoughts???

August 15, 2007 12:26 PM

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