Thomas Brand:
To understand the eMac you have to understand Apple’s technology choices in early 2002. The iMac G3 had all but been phased out with a special “education only” model remaining in circulation. The new iMac G4, with its flat panel display, had just been released, but starting at $1,499 it was too expensive for the education market. There were also questions about the new iMac G4’s design. With its delicate display, adjustable neck, and external speakers was it too fragile for classrooms full of children. Many people were worried Apple was moving away from its educational roots, and would have no compatible desktop offering for the Fall 2002 semester.3
The eMac was Apple’s answers to these concerns. Released in April 2002, it brought the power of a G4 processor and the durability of a 17 inch CRT display to the reliable iMac G3 form factor.
The eMac is one of those machines that Apple didn’t only create to meet a need in its market, but one that they did so with technology they already had on the shelf.