Remembering Bill Atkinson

Bill Atkinson, a brilliant computer scientist and software engineer, passed away on June 5, 2025. He left an incredible mark on the world of technology, especially for Mac users like me. As someone who uses a Mac every day, I’m feeling the legacy of Bill’s work all around me.

Bill joined Apple in 1978 and became a key part of the Macintosh team. He created QuickDraw, the graphics engine that powered the Mac’s revolutionary user interface. Beyond the Mac, Bill co-created HyperCard, a hypertext system that let users build interactive apps by linking “cards” with scripts. It was like the early version of the web, inspiring countless developers and creatives. His ability to blend technical precision with an artist’s touch made technology feel fun and accessible.

As a Mac user, I see his software or ideas built on it; every time I open an app, resize a window, or sketch an idea. His work made my Mac’s interface feel like second nature, turning complex code into something that feels like my own.

Bill Atkinson’s passing is a reminder of a man whose genius quietly shapes my daily experience. He didn’t just build software; he created a way for technology to empower and delight.

Thank you, Bill, for making our Macs a place where creativity can thrive.

Rest in peace.