The iMac G3 wasn't just a computer; it was a cultural reset. With its translucent Bondi Blue shell and all-in-one design, it symbolized Apple's resurgence under Steve Jobs and brought computing into the living room. Now, that iconic blob might return—not as silicon, but as plastic bricks. A fan-designed Lego model of the iMac G3 is gaining traction on Lego's Ideas platform, poised to transform a piece of tech history into a buildable tribute.

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Designed by Fuma Terai, a seasoned Lego Ideas contributor with six previous projects reaching the voting threshold, this 700-piece model meticulously replicates the iMac G3's form and spirit. It uses a fleet of transparent blue windshield elements to mimic the original's casing, housing a brick-built cathode ray tube and circuit board inside. Custom stickers recreate the Mac OS splash screen and iMac logo, while separate models of the keyboard and mouse complete the setup. As Terai demonstrated, even Lego's blocky constraints can evoke the G3's playful essence.

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The path to becoming an official Lego set is steep. Lego Ideas requires submissions to gather 10,000 supporter votes before entering a review phase, where Lego's designers and legal team assess feasibility and intellectual property rights. With over 150 models hitting this mark annually but only six chosen for production, competition is fierce. Terai's design, currently at 6,000 votes with 319 days remaining, benefits from its reliance on existing Lego parts and the tech community's viral support—yet approval hinges on Lego and Apple's willingness to collaborate.

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This isn't just about nostalgia; it's a litmus test for tech licensing in fan creations. Apple is notoriously protective of its IP, and while Lego has successfully partnered with brands like Star Wars, securing a deal for a vintage computer could be challenging. As one forum commenter quipped, "Will Apple take 25% of each retail price?" The outcome could influence how other retro tech icons are preserved in popular culture.

For developers and engineers, the project underscores a broader trend: Physical models like this democratize tech heritage, making it tangible for new generations. Building the iMac G3 in Lego isn't merely assembly—it's an homage to the design risks that reshaped computing. If you want to see this slice of history on your desk, cast your vote on Lego Ideas. Just don't call them 'Legos.'

Source: Tom's Hardware, by Sunny Grimm