Microsoft's 50th Anniversary

Microsoft's 50th anniversary is a landmark worth celebrating for its longevity and impact on how we live, work, and play.

At Windows Central (going on our 18th year ourselves), we've chronicled the journey of this tech giant—a company that began with Bill Gates and Paul Allen's shared 1975 vision of putting a computer on every desk and in every home.

Over the years, Microsoft has given us unforgettable highs, such as the revolutionary Windows 95 launch that practically defined the PC era and milestones like the Xbox 360, which cemented its place in gaming history. We've covered the company's pursuit of innovation through hits like the Surface Pro line and missteps like the Windows Vista release, which struggled under high expectations.

There's a certain nostalgia in looking back at Microsoft's evolution. We miss the simpler days when Clippy popped up with unsolicited advice or when Zune tried, albeit unsuccessfully, to take on the iPod—a quirky reminder of the company's willingness to think outside the box. Our favorite moments include covering the bold move to unify Windows 10 across devices and the thrill of seeing CEO Satya Nadella pivot the company toward AI and cloud computing—a strategy that solidified Microsoft's relevance in modern tech.

And of course, Windows Phone (RIP) 🥲

Here at Windows Central, celebrating Microsoft isn't just about marking milestones; it's about appreciating a company that has left an indelible mark on tech history while continuing to surprise us with what's next.

Here's to the next fifty years, and we hope you enjoy our lookback articles covering this event by our staff!