The Intel 4004 was the world's first commercially available microprocessor, introduced in 1971. It was a 4-bit CPU designed for use in embedded systems and early computing devices, paving the way for the development of modern microprocessors. With its ability to execute simple instructions and manage data, the Intel 4004 revolutionized computing by enabling the creation of programmable calculators and other electronic devices. Its architecture laid the groundwork for future processors, making it a significant milestone in the history of technology.