Microsoft has arguably done more to shape the evolution of the PC than any other company. The tech giant celebrated its 50th anniversary on 4 April, 2025. Fifty years is a long time for anyone, let alone a company which has driven itself to move at the pace of the computer, than the Internet, and now AI. That’s decades of decisions, of launches (and lawsuits) and apps both good and bad. Most changed how you live and work.
But which ones? Here are 25 key moments in the long, storied history of Microsoft! For each, you’ll find a bit of background, a quirky fact or two, and what it has all meant for Microsoft and for you. Happy birthday, Microsoft!
1975: GATES AND ALLEN SHOW OFF THEIR BASIC INTERPRETER
In…