Apple opens prototype archive for 50th anniversary as Tim Cook sees items for the first time

Apple has allowed cameras inside its secret prototype archive as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, giving the public a rare look at decades of unreleased devices, historic documents, and early product ideas.

The video, published by The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday, showed CEO Tim Cook walking through Apple’s archive alongside interviewer Ben Cohen. The collection includes old prototypes, original patents, internal documents, and other items from the company’s history, many of which have never been seen publicly before.

During the tour, Cook admitted there were some items in the archive that even he had never seen before.

“I’m guilty of that,” Cook said, after being shown products and documents he did not know existed.

Cook explained that Apple does not currently have a public space large enough to display everything in its archive, which is why many of the items have remained hidden for years. He added that preparing for Apple’s 50th anniversary gave him the chance to see some of the collection for the first time himself.

Among the items shown was what Cook believes is Apple’s first patent filing, for the Apple II. The archive also featured early prototypes and product concepts from across Apple’s history, offering a look at how the company developed some of its best-known devices.

When asked what Apple’s next major product category could be over the next decade, Cook said it would likely sit at the intersection of hardware, software, and services.

“We like to own the full user experience,” Cook said.

Cohen also attempted to get Cook to comment on rumors surrounding Apple Glass. Laughing, Cook avoided giving anything away, responding: “You can’t have a ship that leaks from the top.”

Apple is marking its 50th anniversary today, celebrating five decades since the company was founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne in 1976. The company has been holding anniversary events around the world throughout March, including performances, Today at Apple sessions, and special appearances from artists, musicians, and creators.