In the 1970s, the world was on the cusp of a technological revolution. The personal computer was about to make its grand entrance, and with it, a new era of electronic devices was born. Among the plethora of gadgets that emerged during this time, there was one toy that stood out from the rest – a handheld computer that captured the imagination of children and adults alike. In this blog post, we'll delve into the history of this fascinating device and explore how it paved the way for the handheld computers we know today.

A Glimpse into the Past

To truly understand the significance of this 70s toy, we must first take a trip back in time. The year was 1977, and the world was witnessing the birth of the first mass-market personal computers. The Apple II, the Commodore PET, and the TRS-80 were all making their debut, and the concept of a computer that could fit in the palm of your hand was still a distant dream.

However, there was one company that dared to envision a future where handheld computers were a reality. That company was none other than the toy giant, Mattel. Known for their innovative and forward-thinking approach to toy design, Mattel set out to create a device that would not only entertain children but also introduce them to the world of computing.

The Birth of a Legend

Enter the Microvision, the world's first handheld electronic game system. Launched in 1979, this groundbreaking device was the brainchild of Jay Smith, an engineer who had previously worked on the development of electronic calculators. With its sleek design and interchangeable game cartridges, the Microvision was a precursor to the handheld gaming consoles that would later dominate the market.

At its core, the Microvision was a simple device. It featured a 16x16 pixel monochrome LCD screen, a small keypad, and a single game cartridge slot. The system was powered by a 9-volt battery, allowing for hours of portable gaming fun. Despite its simplicity, the Microvision captured the hearts and minds of children and adults alike, offering a glimpse into a future where computers were no longer confined to desks and could be carried around in our pockets.

The Games That Shaped a Generation

The Microvision's game library was limited, with only 12 titles released during its short lifespan. However, these games were instrumental in shaping the future of handheld gaming. Among the most popular titles were "Block Buster," a simple yet addictive game inspired by the classic arcade hit "Breakout," and "Star Trek Phaser Strike," which transported players into the world of the iconic sci-fi series.

These games may seem primitive by today's standards, but they were revolutionary at the time. They introduced a generation of children to the world of computing and inspired countless programmers, designers, and engineers to push the boundaries of what was possible with handheld devices.

The Legacy of the Microvision

Although the Microvision was eventually overshadowed by more advanced handheld gaming systems, such as the Nintendo Game Boy and the Atari Lynx, its impact on the world of technology cannot be overstated. The device was a trailblazer, proving that computers could be portable, entertaining, and accessible to all.

The Microvision also demonstrated the power of interchangeable game cartridges, a feature that would become a staple of handheld gaming systems for years to come. This innovation allowed users to expand their game libraries without having to purchase an entirely new device, paving the way for the development of more sophisticated and versatile handheld computers.

Today, we carry powerful computers in our pockets, capable of performing tasks that would have been unimaginable in the 1970s. Our smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices owe a debt of gratitude to the humble Microvision, the toy that dared to dream of a world where computers were no longer confined to desks but could be taken with us wherever we went.

As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with technology, it's important to remember the pioneers who came before us. The Microvision may be a relic of the past, but its influence can still be felt in the devices we use every day. So, the next time you pick up your smartphone or play a game on your handheld console, take a moment to appreciate the 70s toy that started it all – the Mattel Microvision.