Reviving the Classic:
Mac Classic Meets iOS

The Macintosh Classic is more than just a computer. Released by Apple between 1990 and 1992, it became a symbol of an era, representing the simplicity and elegance that still define great industrial design today. Recognizing its significance, one unit was purchased on Leboncoin for a modest price, despite being completely non-functional. The initial goal was to restore it, preserving not only its aesthetic but also bringing it back to life as a working device.

Upon opening the case, however, it became clear that the internal components were beyond repair. The motherboard and power supply were heavily corroded, making any attempt at electronic restoration impractical. This led to a crucial decision. The Mac Classic could remain a purely decorative object, frozen in time as a relic of the past, or it could be transformed, preserving its iconic presence while giving it a new purpose. The challenge was finding a way to merge its historical value with modern usability.

Observing the structure more closely, an interesting detail emerged. The original CRT display had dimensions strikingly similar to an iPad Mini. This opened up a new possibility: replacing the old screen with an iPad while maintaining the integrity of the Mac’s external design. Before committing to this direction, multiple tests were conducted to ensure the dimensions matched. Once confirmed, the next step was to design a custom mounting system that would hold the iPad securely in place. The solution needed to be non-invasive, utilizing the same screw points that once held the original display to avoid modifying the Mac’s chassis.

The mounting system was designed in 3D using Blender, taking into account both the Mac Classic’s curved front panel and the need for a stable, flat surface to hold the iPad. Several prototypes were printed to refine the fit, ensuring the support structure aligned precisely with the existing mounting holes. Each iteration improved stability and alignment, gradually perfecting the integration between the original hardware and the new display.

Design is a funny word. Some people think design means how it looks. But of course, if you dig deeper, it’s really how it works. The design of the Mac wasn’t what it looked like, although that was part of it. Primarily, it was how it worked. To design something really well, you have to get it. You have to really grok what it’s all about. It takes a passionate commitment to really thoroughly understand something, chew it up, not just quickly swallow it. Most people don’t take the time to do that.

Steve Jobs – Wired magazine, 1994

Finally, after multiple refinements, the perfect fit was achieved. The custom mount was installed, the iPad Mini was securely positioned, and the transformed Mac Classic was brought back to life. Now, instead of being an unusable relic, it functions as a fully operational iOS device. It can stream videos, play music, and even serve as an AirPlay display, merging timeless design with modern technology in a way that respects the past while embracing the future.

If you’re interested in another creative DIY project, take a look at Pinja, a Raspberry Pi-based cloud NAS designed from scratch to be both functional and visually unique.