(RED)

Apple's variant of the (PRODUCT)^RED logo

(RED), stylized as (PRODUCT)^RED, is a licensed brand that engages the private sector to raise funds to fight HIV in sub-Saharan Africa through The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The organization was founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver.

Apple Inc. is a major participant in the program and donates proceeds from its (PRODUCT)^RED-branded releases.

History[]

Apple Product Red hero 2012-09 — Apple's (RED) product line in September 2012.

In October 2006, Apple Computer became a key participant in the campaign due to co-founder Steve Jobs' working relationship with U2 and their frontman Bono, as well as their prominence as a cultural icon. Alongside fellow product retailers Gap, Emporio Armani, and Converse, electronics manufacturer Motorola, and financial services provider American Express, Apple offered a special, stylized product to distinguish its effort towards the fight against HIV/AIDS and poverty in Africa. Apple stated that they would contribute $10 USD to the (PRODUCT)^RED Global Fund for each of these Special Editions sold.

The iPod nano that was employed as the basis for the first (PRODUCT)^RED Special Edition featured the same specifications and features as other 2nd-generation iPod nanos. It was initially offered in a 4 GB version, and only differed from its fellow nanos in the use of the vibrant red anodized aluminum case.^[1] An 8 GB version became available in November 2006.^[2]