The Evolution of the Microsoft Brand
Today is the 50th anniversary of one of the world’s biggest brands, Microsoft. How was this computing firm born? Inspiration struck when Bill Gates and Paul Allen saw the magazine cover of Popular Electronics, featuring the Altair 8800 – the first microcomputer.
From there, they set out on a mission to write software for it and any future versions. As a result, on 4 April 1975, Microsoft was born.
The Evolution of the Microsoft Brand
Microsoft hasn’t simply jumped on trends; it has fundamentally adapted its business model to grow alongside the needs of its customers and the world. From its origin story of microcomputing and software – hence the name ‘Microsoft’ – the brand has evolved significantly over the last 50 years. It has expanded into entirely new areas while also staying at the forefront of trends, societal change, and other external factors.
This adaptability is one of the reasons it has not only maintained its position among the Big Five (Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, and Microsoft) but is also the longest-running brand in the ranking.
Becoming a Part of Everyday Life
Over the past 50 years, Microsoft has developed its offering to become a fundamental part of daily life. More than 1 billion people use its operating system, Windows; around 400 million use Outlook every day; and Microsoft Office has 1.2 billion users worldwide. Each product offers a unique purpose and benefit, but integrates seamlessly into the ideal productivity ecosystem – the perfect hub that fits together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.
Microsoft’s influence extends beyond productivity into gaming and social media. In 2001, it took on gaming with Xbox, which now has over 200 million active users and is a cornerstone of the industry. Meanwhile, LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network, connects 1 billion users worldwide, establishing Microsoft’s presence in recruitment and professional networking.
Staying Relevant
Beyond becoming essential to our daily lives, Microsoft has remained relevant in the minds of customers. As soon as a brand starts to become outdated, newer, more agile competitors start to look more appealing.
For example, in the race to utilise generative AI after the introduction of ChatGPT, Microsoft integrated the technology into its search engine Bing, revolutionising AI-powered search. (Of course, Microsoft is also one of OpenAI’s biggest investors.) Take its Xbox collaborations too. Over the last few years, Microsoft has partnered with OPI to release a range of gamer-themed nail polish and designed vibrant Switch consoles inspired by Fanta drinks. Over a decade ago, it led the way in moving games consoles to entertainment platforms, introducing original branded TV content to create a compelling experience for Xbox users and fostering the strong community we see today.
Conclusion
There is no denying that Microsoft deserves its place among the world’s most valuable brands. Considering it was founded during the earliest days of personal computers – before the technology behind its current core product suite even existed – one can only imagine what it will make possible in the next 50 years.
FAQs
Q: How was Microsoft founded?
A: Microsoft was founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, who saw the magazine cover of Popular Electronics featuring the Altair 8800 – the first microcomputer.
Q: What was Microsoft’s first product?
A: Microsoft’s first product was a version of the programming language BASIC for the Altair 8800.
Q: What is Microsoft’s current focus?
A: Microsoft is currently focused on cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and gaming, among other areas.
Q: What is Microsoft’s goal for the environment?
A: Microsoft plans to be carbon negative by 2030 and has committed to removing all the carbon it has emitted into the environment since its founding by 2050.
Q: What is the Xbox Adaptive Joystick?
A: The Xbox Adaptive Joystick is a customisable gaming controller designed for gamers with limited mobility, featuring 3D-printable accessories to enhance usability and accessibility.
