Camera · The Digital Hub · 2003
iSight
The cylindrical iSight made video chat feel polished on the Mac before webcams were built into every laptop lid.
Why it mattered
Apple’s external webcam for iChat AV.
iSight: key facts
When was the iSight released?
The iSight arrived in June 2003. Apple discontinued it in December 2006.
How much did the iSight cost?
The iSight launched at $149 in 2003, about $259 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: FireWire.
Why does the iSight matter?
Apple’s external webcam for iChat AV.
Full specifications
| CPU | — |
|---|---|
| Cores | — |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | — |
| Display | — |
| GPU | — |
| Ports | FireWire |
| Weight | Varies by model |
| Dimensions | External FireWire webcam |
| Operating system | Driver/firmware support |
| Released | June 2003 |
| Discontinued | December 2006 |
| Launch price | $149 |
How the iSight compares to today
Launched at $149 in 2003, about $259 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Related Camera models
Open the iSight in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11