Apple Marks 50th Anniversary With Paul McCartney Concert and Homepage Takeover

Apple has officially marked its 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of consumer technology with a homepage takeover, a retrospective video from CEO Tim Cook, and a private concert by Paul McCartney at Apple Park.



Exactly 50 years after its founding on April 1, 1976, Apple updated its website with an animation titled "50 Years of Thinking Different." Alongside the digital banner, Cook shared a fast-paced video on X. The VHS-style clip rewinds through the company's product history, starting with the recently released MacBook Neo and tracking all the way back to the original Apple I.

50 years of Apple, 50 years of innovation.

Thank you to our teams, our users, and everyone who's been part of the journey. #Apple50 pic.twitter.com/YYkMN24Vzc

— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 1, 2026

On the eve of the anniversary, a massive employee celebration at the Cupertino headquarters ushered in the milestone. McCartney played a career-spanning set under the rainbow arches at Apple Park, performing classics from The Beatles, Wings, and his solo albums. Cook introduced the music icon to the crowd, calling him a pioneer and one of the most influential artists of all time.

Sir Paul McCartney by Tim Cook pic.twitter.com/LR7YPIFppG

— Nico (@nicoPinos_) April 1, 2026

McCartney's performance serves as a notable full-circle moment. Apple Computer and The Beatles' holding company, Apple Corps, were entangled in trademark disputes for decades before finally settling in 2007. The Cupertino concert brings an end to a weeks-long series of global anniversary events that began with an open letter from Cook and featured public appearances like an intimate Alicia Keys show at Grand Central Terminal.

Paul McCartney cantando "Help!" no Apple Park, em Cupertino (31/03)
📸: theleagueofbandits pic.twitter.com/1ssLsDulGe

— The Beatle BR 🍏🐦‍⬛ (@TheBeatleBR) April 1, 2026

Apple is also recognizing its retail and corporate staff with special commemorative gifts. Employees are receiving a custom t-shirt, an enamel pin, and a limited-edition poster featuring the scribble-style rainbow Apple logo designed specifically for the 50th anniversary.