Microsoft was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen on April 4, 1975, to develop and sell BASIC interpreters for the Altair 8800. It rose to dominate the personal computer operating system market with MS-DOS in the mid-1980s, followed by Windows.
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The company's 1986 initial public offering (IPO) and
subsequent rise in its share price created three billionaires and an estimated
12,000 millionaires among Microsoft employees. Since the 1990s, it has
increasingly diversified from the operating system market and has made several
corporate acquisitions, the largest being the acquisition of LinkedIn for $26.2
billion in December 2016, followed by its acquisition of Skype
Technologies for $8.5 billion in May 2011.
Timeline of Microsoft: A Journey through Innovation and Technology
In the
ever-evolving world of technology, few companies have left as indelible a mark
as Microsoft. Since its inception in 1975, Microsoft Corporation has
consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, revolutionizing the way we
interact with computers, software, and the digital landscape as a whole. In
this comprehensive article, we embark on a journey through the timeline of
Microsoft, exploring its pivotal moments, groundbreaking products, and enduring
legacy.
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Early Days: The Birth of a Tech Giant (1975-1980)
Microsoft's
journey began in a humble manner, when two
young visionaries, Bill Gates and Paul Allen, founded the company in
Albuquerque, New Mexico, on April 4, 1975. Initially focused on
developing a version of the BASIC programming language for the Altair 8800
microcomputer, Microsoft quickly gained recognition for its expertise in
software development. This marked the dawn of a technological revolution that
would shape the future.
Key Milestones
1975:
Microsoft is founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen.
1978:
Microsoft relocates its headquarters to Bellevue, Washington.
1980:
The Company strikes a deal with IBM to provide an operating system for their
first personal computer.
The Windows
Era:
Pioneering the Graphical User Interface (1981-1990)
The 1980s witnessed
the meteoric rise of Microsoft with the introduction of MS-DOS, the operating
system that powered IBM's first PC. However, it was in 1985 that the company
released Windows 1.0, marking the beginning of a new era. Windows introduced
the graphical user interface (GUI) to mainstream computing, making it more
user-friendly and accessible.
Key Milestones
1985:
Windows 1.0 is launched, laying the foundation for the future of personal
computing.
1987:
Windows 2.0 enhances the GUI experience.
1990:
Windows 3.0 becomes a massive success, with over 10 million copies sold.
Dominating
the Market: Microsoft Office and Windows
95 (1991-2000)
The 1990s
were a defining decade for Microsoft. The release of Microsoft Office in 1990
set a new standard for productivity software, while Windows 95, with its iconic
Start menu, became a global sensation. Microsoft solidified its position as a
tech behemoth, dominating the software market.
Key Milestones
1990:
Microsoft Office is introduced.
1995:
Windows 95 is released, becoming a cultural phenomenon.
1998:
The U.S. Department of Justice files an antitrust lawsuit against Microsoft.
Challenges
and Innovations: Entering the 21st Century
(2001-2010)
The new
millennium brought both challenges and innovations for Microsoft. While the
company faced legal battles over antitrust issues, it continued to expand its
product offerings. Windows XP, Xbox, and the Microsoft .NET Framework were some
of the highlights during this period.
Key Milestones
2001:
Windows XP is launched, garnering widespread acclaim.
2005:
Xbox 360 is introduced, marking Microsoft's foray into the gaming industry.
2009:
Windows 7 receives critical acclaim for its improved performance.
Cloud
Computing and Beyond (2011-Present)
In recent
years, Microsoft has embraced cloud computing with Azure, establishing itself
as a major player in the cloud services market. Additionally, the release of Windows
10, followed by Windows 11, showcases the company's commitment to
providing cutting-edge operating systems.
Key Milestones
2011:
Microsoft Azure emerges as a powerful cloud computing platform.
2015:
Windows 10 is unveiled, offering a unified experience across devices.
2021:
Windows 11 is released, featuring a redesigned user interface.
The Legacy of Innovation
As we
traverse the timeline of Microsoft, it becomes evident that this tech giant's
journey is defined by a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. From
pioneering graphical user interfaces to revolutionizing cloud computing,
Microsoft has consistently shaped the tech landscape.
With a legacy
spanning nearly five decades, Microsoft remains at the forefront of technology,
continually striving to make the world more connected and accessible through
its products and services.
Timeline of Microsoft
When it comes
to exploring the timeline of Microsoft, there are several valuable resources
you can utilize to gain a comprehensive understanding of the company's history
and evolution. Here are some of the best resources and how you can make the
most of them:
Official Microsoft Website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-in
The official
Microsoft website is a great starting point. It provides a detailed timeline of
the company's milestones, product releases, and key events. You can explore
their "About" or "History" section for a chronological
overview.
Books
There are
numerous books written about Microsoft's history and its co-founder, Bill
Gates. Some highly recommended titles include "The Road Ahead" by
Bill Gates and "Microsoft Secrets" by Michael A. Cusumano and Richard
W. Selby. These books offer deep insights into the company's journey.
Documentaries
Consider
watching documentaries like "Triumph of the Nerds: The Rise of Accidental
Empires" and "Nerds 2.0.1: A Brief History of the Internet."
While not exclusively about Microsoft, they provide context about the tech industry
in which Microsoft thrived.
Online Articles and Blogs
Look for
well-researched articles and blogs dedicated to Microsoft's history. Websites
like Wikipedia often have detailed articles on the subject. Additionally,
technology news websites and blogs may offer in-depth retrospectives.
YouTube Videos
YouTube hosts
various documentaries, interviews, and presentations related to Microsoft's
history. You can find videos featuring Bill Gates, Steve Ballmer, and other key
figures discussing the company's journey.
Microsoft Museum
Microsoft has
its own museum, the Microsoft Visitor Center, located in Redmond, Washington.
If you have the opportunity to visit, it provides an immersive experience of
Microsoft's history and innovations.
Academic Journals
For a more
scholarly perspective, explore academic journals and papers related to
Microsoft's impact on the technology industry. Academic databases like JSTOR
and Google Scholar can be helpful.
Podcasts
Some podcasts
focus on the history of technology companies, including Microsoft. These
podcasts often feature interviews with experts and insiders who provide unique
insights.
Archives and Libraries
Universities
and research institutions often have archives and libraries that house
historical documents and materials related to Microsoft. Visiting these
resources can provide primary source information.
To make the
most of these resources, start by creating a structured timeline of Microsoft's
history. Take notes on key events, product launches, and significant developments.
Cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. You can
also use multimedia resources like documentaries and videos to get a visual
sense of the company's evolution.
Remember that
Microsoft's history is vast, so taking a systematic approach and breaking it
down into periods or eras can help you digest the information effectively.
Enjoy your journey through Microsoft's timeline!
Important Dates
Date: Event
1975: Microsoft
founded
Jan. 1, 1979:
Microsoft moves from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Bellevue, Washington
June 25, 1981:
Microsoft incorporates
Aug. 12, 1981:
IBM introduces its personal computer with Microsoft’s 16-bit operating system,
MS-DOS 1.0
Feb. 26, 1986:
Microsoft moves to corporate campus in Redmond, Washington
March 13,
1986: Microsoft stock goes public
Aug. 1, 1989:
Microsoft introduces earliest version of Office suite of productivity
applications
May 22, 1990:
Microsoft launches Windows 3.0
Aug. 24, 1995:
Microsoft launches Windows 95
Dec. 7, 1995:
Bill Gates outlines Microsoft’s commitment to supporting and enhancing the
Internet
June 25, 1998:
Microsoft launches Windows 98
Jan. 13, 2000:
Steve Ballmer named president and chief executive officer for Microsoft
Feb. 17, 2000:
Microsoft launches Windows 2000
June 22, 2000:
Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer outline Microsoft’s .NET strategy for Web services
May 31, 2001:
Microsoft launches Office XP
Oct. 25, 2001:
Microsoft launches Windows XP
Nov. 15, 2001:
Microsoft launches Xbox
Jan. 15, 2002:
Bill Gates outlines Microsoft’s commitment to Trustworthy Computing
April 24,
2003: Microsoft launches Windows Server 2003
Oct. 21, 2003:
Microsoft launches Microsoft Office System
July 20, 2004:
Microsoft announces plans to return up to $75 billion to shareholders in
dividends and stock buybacks
Nov. 22, 2005:
Microsoft launches Xbox 360
July 20, 2006:
Microsoft announces a new US$20 billion tender offer and authorizes an
additional share-repurchase program of up to $20 billion over five years
Jan. 30, 2007:
Microsoft launches Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office System to
consumers worldwide
Feb. 27, 2008:
Microsoft launches Windows Server 2008, SQL Server 2008 and Visual Studio 2008
June 27, 2008:
Bill Gates transitions from his day-to-day role at Microsoft to spend more time
on his work at The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
June 3, 2009:
Microsoft launches Bing decision engine
Oct. 22, 2009:
Microsoft launches Windows 7; opens first physical store in Scottsdale, Arizona
June 15, 2010:
Microsoft launches general availability of Office 2010
Nov. 10, 2010:
Microsoft launches Windows Phone 7
Nov. 17, 2010:
Microsoft announces availability of Microsoft Lync
June 28, 2011:
Microsoft launches Office 365
Oct. 13,
2011: Microsoft closes its acquisition of Skype
June 25,
2012: Microsoft acquires Yammer
Sept. 4, 2012:
Microsoft launches Windows Server 2012
Sept. 12,
2012: Microsoft launches Visual Studio 2012
Oct. 18, 2012:
Microsoft employee giving tops US$1 billion
Oct. 23, 2012:
Microsoft introduces new entertainment experience from Xbox
Oct. 26, 2012:
Microsoft launches Windows 8 and Microsoft Surface
Jan. 29, 2013:
Microsoft launches Office 2013, expands Office 365
Feb. 18, 2013:
Microsoft launches Outlook.com
May 21,
2013: Microsoft unveils Xbox One
July 11,
2013: “Microsoft One” reorganization realigns company to enable innovation at
great speed, efficiency
Sept. 3,
2013: Microsoft announces decision to acquire Nokia’s devices and services
business, license Nokia’s patents and mapping services
Oct. 17,
2013: Microsoft launches Windows 8.1
Oct. 22,
2013: Microsoft launches Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2
Nov. 22,
2013: Microsoft launches Xbox One
Feb. 4,
2014: Satya Nadella named chief executive officer for Microsoft
March 27,
2014: Microsoft launches Office for iPad
April 25,
2014: Microsoft completes acquisition of Nokia Devices and Services business
June 20,
2014: Microsoft launches Surface Pro 3
Sept. 15,
2014: Minecraft to join Microsoft announcement
Nov. 6,
2014: Microsoft announces Office apps for Android tablets
May 5, 2015: Microsoft
releases Surface 3
July 29, 2015:
Microsoft launches Windows 10
Sept. 22,
2015: Microsoft launches Office 2016
Oct. 6, 2015:
Microsoft announces Surface Book, Surface Pro 4, Microsoft Band 2, Lumia 950
and Lumia 95 XL
Oct. 26, 2015:
Microsoft opens flagship store in New York City
Nov. 12, 2015:
Microsoft opens flagship store in Sydney, Australia
Jan. 19, 2016:
Microsoft Philanthropies announces $1B in donations putting Microsoft Cloud to
work for the public good
June 1, 2016:
Microsoft launches SQL Server 2016
July 6, 2016:
Microsoft introduces Microsoft Dynamics 365
Sept. 29,
2016: Microsoft forms what is now the Technology + Research Group
Oct. 18, 2016:
Microsoft researchers achieve human parity in conversational speech recognition
Oct. 26, 2016:
Microsoft introduces Surface Studio, Surface Dial, new Surface Book and Windows
10 Creators Update
Dec. 8, 2016:
Microsoft completes acquisition of LinkedIn
March 7, 2017:
Microsoft releases Visual Studio 2017
March 17,
2017: Microsoft Teams rolls out to Office 365 customers worldwide
May 2, 2017: Microsoft
introduces new technology for education, including Windows 10 S, new Surface
Laptop and Microsoft Teams for classrooms
May 23, 2017:
Microsoft announces Windows 10 China Government Edition and the new Surface Pro
June 14, 2017:
Surface Laptop and new Surface Pro available in 25 markets worldwide
Sept. 21,
2017: Microsoft, Facebook and Telxius complete “Marea,” the highest-capacity
subsea cable to cross the Atlantic Ocean
Oct. 17, 2017:
Windows 10 Fall Creators Update and Mixed Reality Headsets become available;
Surface Book 2 announced
Nov. 6, 2017:
Microsoft launches Xbox One X
Nov. 28, 2017:
Microsoft announces major Redmond campus renovation
Dec. 5, 2017:
Microsoft breaks ground on new sustainable Silicon Valley campus
Feb. 22, 2018:
Microsoft opens new campus in Dublin, Ireland
May 15, 2018:
Microsoft announces Surface Hub 2
May 16, 2018:
Microsoft unveils Xbox Adaptive Controller
Aug. 2, 2018:
Surface Go becomes available
Oct. 26, 2018:
Microsoft completes GitHub acquisition
Jan. 16, 2019:
Microsoft announces $500 million commitment to advance affordable housing in
Puget Sound region
Feb. 24, 2019:
Microsoft introduces HoloLens 2
July 11, 2019:
Microsoft opens flagship store in London
Oct. 2, 2019:
Microsoft announces five Surface products for late 2019, plus two new
dual-screen devices, Surface Neo and Surface Duo, coming in late 2020
Dec. 12, 2019:
Microsoft announces Xbox Series X, coming in late 2020
Jan. 16, 2020:
Microsoft announces plan to become carbon negative by 2030
March 30,
2020: Microsoft introduces new Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions
April 15,
2020: Microsoft announces plan to help protect biodiversity of the world’s
ecosystems
May 6, 2020: Microsoft
introduces Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, Surface Headphones 2 and Surface
Earbuds
June 30, 2020:
Microsoft commits to helping 25 million people acquire new digital skills
Sept. 21,
2020: Microsoft announces it will replenish more water than it consumes by 2030
Sept. 21,
2020: Microsoft announces plans to acquire ZeniMax Media and its game
publisher, Bethesda Softworks
Oct. 1, 2020:
Microsoft introduces Surface Laptop Go
Oct. 20, 2020:
Microsoft introduces Azure Space
Jan. 11, 2021:
Microsoft introduces Surface Pro 7+ for Business
Feb. 4, 2021:
Microsoft introduces Microsoft Viva employee experience platform
Feb. 11, 2021:
Microsoft announces plans to expand its presence in Atlanta
March 2, 2021:
Microsoft introduces Microsoft Mesh mixed-reality platform
June 24, 2021:
Microsoft introduces Windows 11
July 14, 2021:
Microsoft unveils Windows 365
Nov. 9, 2021:
Microsoft introduces Windows 11 SE to support the K-8 classroom
Jan. 18, 2022:
Microsoft announces plans to acquire Activision Blizzard
March 4, 2022:
Microsoft completes acquisition of Nuance
Oct. 12, 2022:
Microsoft introduces Surface Pro 9, Surface Laptop 5, Surface Studio 2+,
Microsoft Designer and Image Creator
Jan. 18, 2023:
Microsoft and OpenAI extend partnership
Feb. 7, 2023:
Microsoft reinvents search with new AI-powered Bing and Edge
March 16,
2023: Microsoft introduces Microsoft 365 Copilot with next-generation AI
May 23, 2023:
Microsoft introduces Windows Copilot
As of June
30, 2023
Microsoft
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