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EXHIBIT 5.1
December 15, 2000
Apple Computer, Inc.
1 Infinite Loop
Cupertino, California 95014
RE: REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-8 FOR THE 1997 EMPLOYEE STOCK
OPTION PLAN
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I have examined the Registration Statement on Form S-8 to be filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on or about December 19, 2000 (the
"Registration Statement") in connection with the registration under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, of 20,000,000 additional shares
authorized for issuance under the 1997 Employee Stock Option Plan, as amended
(the "1997 Plan") of Apple Computer, Inc.'s Common Stock, no par value. The
shares of Apple Common Stock to be registered under the Registration
Statement are hereinafter referred to as the "Shares". As counsel in
connection with this transaction, I have examined the actions taken, and I am
familiar with the actions proposed to be taken, in connection with the
issuance and sale of the Shares pursuant to the 1997 Plan.
It is my opinion that, when issued and sold in the manner described in the
1997 Plan and pursuant to the agreements which accompany each grant, the
Shares will be legally and validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable.
I consent to the use of this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration
Statement, and further consent to the use of my name wherever appearing in
the Registration Statement.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Nancy R. Heinen
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Nancy R. Heinen
General Counsel
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