Milena Valdivia

Written by Milena Valdivia

Modified & Updated: 11 Oct 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

12-facts-about-microsoft
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Microsoft is one of the most iconic and influential tech companies in the world. Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, Microsoft has revolutionized the way people use computers and software. Over the years, Microsoft has developed a wide range of products and services that have become integral parts of our daily lives. From its Windows operating system to its Office suite of productivity tools, Microsoft has played a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape.

In this article, we will delve into 12 fascinating facts about Microsoft that highlight its journey from a small startup to a global tech giant. From its humble beginnings in a garage to its significant contributions to technology, these facts shed light on the remarkable success and impact of Microsoft.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft, founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, has shaped the tech industry with Windows, Office, Xbox, and AI focus.
  • With a commitment to sustainability and philanthropy, Microsoft’s impact extends beyond technology, aiming to empower individuals and organizations globally.
Table of Contents

Microsoft was founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen.

Two young entrepreneurs, Bill Gates and Paul Allen, started Microsoft with a vision to put a computer on every desk and in every home.

Microsoft’s first product was a version of the programming language BASIC for the Altair 8800.

In 1975, Microsoft developed a version of BASIC, a widely used programming language, for the Altair 8800, one of the first personal computers.

Windows, Microsoft’s flagship operating system, was first released in 1985.

Windows revolutionized personal computing by introducing a graphical user interface and became the dominant operating system for PCs worldwide.

Microsoft Office is one of the most widely used productivity suites in the world.

Microsoft Office includes popular applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, used by individuals and businesses globally for various tasks.

The Xbox gaming console is a product of Microsoft.

Microsoft entered the gaming industry with the launch of the Xbox in 2001, which has since become a major player in the console market.

Microsoft acquired LinkedIn, the professional networking platform, in 2016.

The acquisition of LinkedIn enabled Microsoft to expand its presence in the social media and professional networking space.

Azure, Microsoft’s cloud computing platform, is one of the leading solutions in the industry.

Azure provides a wide range of cloud services, including virtual machines, storage, and AI capabilities, utilized by businesses worldwide.

Microsoft has a strong commitment to sustainability.

The company has set ambitious environmental goals, aiming to be carbon negative by 2030 and to remove all its historical carbon emissions by 2050.

Microsoft is known for its philanthropic efforts.

The company’s philanthropic initiatives include the Microsoft Philanthropies program, which focuses on leveraging technology for social impact.

Microsoft’s annual revenue consistently ranks among the highest in the technology industry.

The company’s diverse product portfolio and global reach have contributed to its financial success and market dominance.

Microsoft Windows is available in numerous languages, catering to a global user base.

The availability of Windows in multiple languages ensures that users from various regions can enjoy the benefits of Microsoft’s operating system.

Microsoft has a strong focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning.

The company is investing heavily in AI and machine learning technologies to drive innovation across various domains.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 12 facts about Microsoft provide a glimpse into the incredible success and impact of this iconic company. From its humble beginnings in a garage to its current status as one of the largest tech giants in the world, Microsoft has revolutionized the way we use computers, software, and services. With its constant innovation, commitment to accessibility, and dedication to improving the lives of people around the globe, Microsoft continues to shape the future of technology. Whether it’s through their flagship products like Windows and Office, or their advancements in cloud computing and artificial intelligence, Microsoft remains at the forefront of the digital revolution.

FAQs

1. When was Microsoft founded?

Microsoft was founded on April 4, 1975.

2. Who are the founders of Microsoft?

Microsoft was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen.

3. What are Microsoft’s most popular products?

Some of Microsoft’s most popular products include Windows operating systems, Office productivity suite, Azure cloud computing platform, and Xbox gaming consoles.

4. How many employees does Microsoft have?

As of 2021, Microsoft has more than 160,000 employees worldwide.

5. Where is Microsoft headquartered?

Microsoft is headquartered in Redmond, Washington, United States.

6. What is the market value of Microsoft?

As of 2021, Microsoft has a market value of over $2 trillion, making it one of the most valuable companies in the world.

7. Does Microsoft only develop software?

No, in addition to software development, Microsoft also manufactures hardware devices such as Surface tablets and Xbox consoles.

8. What is Microsoft’s commitment to sustainability?

Microsoft is committed to achieving carbon negativity by 2030 and removing all the carbon dioxide the company has emitted since its founding by 2050.

9. How does Microsoft contribute to philanthropy?

Microsoft has its philanthropic initiative called Microsoft Philanthropies, which focuses on providing technology access, skills training, and community support to underserved populations.

10. Does Microsoft have a cloud computing platform?

Yes, Microsoft’s cloud computing platform is called Azure, which provides a range of services for building, deploying, and managing applications and services through Microsoft-managed data centers.

11. Is Microsoft actively involved in artificial intelligence research?

Yes, Microsoft is actively involved in artificial intelligence research and development through its AI division known as Microsoft AI and Research.

12. How does Microsoft prioritize accessibility?

Microsoft is committed to making its products and services accessible for people with disabilities through various accessibility features and initiatives like the Microsoft Accessibility Resource Center.

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