MacWEEK: The Definitive Trade Journal of the Early Macintosh Era
In the rapidly evolving landscape of early personal computing, MacWEEK served as a critical nexus of information for the Apple Macintosh community. Established as a controlled-circulation trade journal—a publication distributed for free to a specific, qualified professional audience—it provided deep industry insights and insider knowledge that shaped the perception of Apple during its formative years.
The Origins and Evolution of MacWEEK
Founded in 1987 and based in San Francisco, MacWEEK was the brainchild of Michael Tchong, John Anderson, Glenn Patch, Dick Govatski, and Michael F. Billings. Its influence grew quickly, leading to its acquisition by the publishing giant Ziff-Davis in 1988.
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For over a decade, the publication operated as both a paper and online magazine, maintaining a steady pulse on the Macintosh ecosystem. However, by the late 1990s, a shift in corporate strategy led to a significant rebranding. On August 24, 1998, the print edition was relaunched as eMediaWeekly. This transition proved contentious, as several existing sponsors withheld their advertising in response to the change. eMediaWeekly continued publication until February 1, 1999.
While the print version faded, the online edition of MacWEEK persisted for several years. Initially managed by the original MacWEEK staff and later by former Macworld editors, the digital presence was eventually shuttered to make way for Mac Publishing's Macworld and MacCentral sites.
The Culture of Rumors and "MacLeak"
MacWEEK was perhaps most famous for its role as a source of record for Apple product rumors. The publication featured a legendary back-page rumor column written by a pseudonymous author known as Mac the Knife.
The journal's relationship with Apple was complex. Some Apple employees, following the lead of executive Jean-Louis Gassée, jokingly referred to the publication as "MacLeak" due to its ability to uncover internal secrets. Paradoxically, the journal became a tool for the employees themselves. Some staff members used MacWEEK to leak information they could not officially disclose, using the public eye to draw internal corporate attention or secure funding for their specific projects, or simply to stay informed about the inner workings of their own company.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1987 in San Francisco.
- Ownership: Founded by a five-person team; acquired by Ziff-Davis in 1988.
- Distribution: Free to qualified subscribers.
- Notable Feature: The "Mac the Knife" rumor column.
- Successor: Relaunched as eMediaWeekly in 1998.
- ISSN: 0892-8118.
Publication Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Trade Journal |
| Format | Paper and Online |
| Active Years | 1987–1999 (Print) |
| Language | English |
| Final Print Iteration | eMediaWeekly (Aug 1998 – Feb 1999) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was MacWEEK?
MacWEEK was a weekly trade journal focused on the Apple Macintosh, providing industry news and insider information to qualified subscribers.
Who was Mac the Knife?
Mac the Knife was the pseudonymous author of the rumor column located on the back page of MacWEEK.
Why did Apple employees call it "MacLeak"?
The term was used, notably by executive Jean-Louis Gassée, because the publication frequently published internal Apple rumors and leaked information.
What happened to MacWEEK in 1998?
The print publication was relaunched as eMediaWeekly on August 24, 1998, as part of a strategy change, which led some sponsors to stop advertising.
When did the online version of MacWEEK end?
The online edition continued for several years after the print version ceased, eventually being closed in favor of Macworld and MacCentral sites.