What was the pivotal change the graphical user interface introduced compared to its predecessor?

The pivotal change introduced by the graphical user interface (GUI) compared to its predecessor, which primarily relied on command-line interfaces, is that it allowed for mouse interaction. This significant development made computing more accessible to the general public, as users could navigate through visual elements such as icons and buttons instead of memorizing and typing text-based commands. The use of a mouse for selecting objects, opening applications, and performing actions created a more intuitive and engaging way to interact with computers, enabling users to manipulate visual components directly.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the transformative nature of the GUI. The previous command-line interfaces were often seen as less user-friendly, which is contrary to what the GUI aimed to achieve. Additionally, the requirement for coding knowledge was a characteristic of command-line interfaces and not a feature of GUIs, which sought to eliminate such barriers. Lastly, while the command-line interface might have been more suited for professionals initially, GUIs were designed to be accessible to a broader audience, including everyday users. Therefore, the introduction of mouse interaction marked a significant shift in how users engaged with computer systems, making it a defining feature of graphical user interfaces.