What key feature distinguished the Macintosh from previous computers at the time of its release?

The Macintosh was distinguished from previous computers by its groundbreaking graphic user interface (GUI). This user-friendly interface allowed users to interact with the computer using visual elements such as icons and windows, rather than requiring them to input complex text commands. This marked a significant shift in how people could engage with technology, lowering the learning curve for new users and making computers more accessible to a broader audience. The introduction of the GUI was a major innovation at the time, setting the Macintosh apart in an era dominated by text-based operating systems and command-line inputs, and significantly influencing the design of future operating systems across the industry.