Olivetti refers to a notable Italian company that specializes in the design and production of various office equipment, particularly typewriters, calculators, computers, and printers. Initially founded as a typewriter manufacturer by Camillo Olivetti in 1908, the company gradually expanded its product range and became renowned internationally for its innovative and high-quality office devices.
Olivetti's typewriters were celebrated for their ergonomic design and mechanical precision, with various models introduced over the years. The company played a significant role in revolutionizing the typewriter industry, incorporating advanced features such as advanced key layouts, interchangeable typefaces, and efficient typing mechanisms. During the mid-20th century, Olivetti became one of the world's leading typewriter manufacturers, commanding a significant market share both in Italy and abroad.
In addition to typewriters, Olivetti diversified its portfolio to encompass calculators, computers, and printers. Notably, the company introduced the Programma 101 in 1965, considered one of the pioneering desktop calculators and a precursor to the modern personal computer. Olivetti played an influential role in the advancement of computing technology, particularly in the realm of early personal computers.
Although the prominence of typewriters declined with the advent of digital technology, Olivetti endured by adapting to new market demands. It shifted its focus to manufacturing computers, printers, and other office equipment. Today, Olivetti is a part of the Telecom Italia Group and continues to provide innovative solutions for the workplace, including multifunction printers, document management systems, and IT services.
