The Performa Line of Macs

The discussion highlights the Performa line of Macs introduced by Apple during the 1990s, which is often criticized for its confusing variety, featuring around 44 to 46 different models. While the line served as an accessible entry point for many consumers and families, it ultimately harmed Apple's brand reputation due to its lack of clarity and cohesion. The conversation indicates that despite the backlash, there's a certain nostalgia for these models among users, many of whom remember them fondly as their first computers. This illustrates the duality of the Performa line's success—successful sales paired with business strategy missteps that had lasting impacts on Apple's image.