Recently Microsoft has become the most expensive company in the world outpacing Apple. Its founder Bill Gates is one of the richest people on Earth with a fortune of $133 billion. The company has come a long way and now is the key player in the software industry. However, it is for a reason.
In 1975 Microsoft was born — the legendary company which changed the world. Two friends, Paul Allen and Bill Gates, read an article about a microcomputer — Altair 8800. It inspired them to develop a software interpreter — BASIC.
That’s how the story began. The success instantly stroke them: their software became extremely popular. However, the real success came down in 1981 when IBM PC emerged on the market. The system was based on 86-DOS which guys acquired from Seattle Computer Products. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint appeared two years later.
Windows
The history of the major Microsoft product Windows started in 1984. Though initially conservative users didn’t take it seriously, Windows interface eventually demonstrated its validity.
In 1996, Microsoft started launching pocket devices. Now they are not as popular as they used to be. That’s why in 2013 the company acquired Nokia mobile department. It enabled Microsoft to dispose of Lumia smartphones until 2023.
Microsoft develops a wide range of software products like operating systems, server-based apps, interactive programs, and others. Their products are sold in 80 countries all over the world, translated into 45 languages, and are compatible with most PC.
Highs and lows
In 2001, Microsoft launched Xbox one — the major Sony PlayStation’s competitor. However, nearly 100% of the first game consoles were defective and broke down fast. Though this model wasn’t iconic, Xbox 360 has become one of the top-selling consoles ever.
Surprisingly, Microsoft demonstrated the first smart watch in 1994. Of course, it couldn’t show incoming messages or wake users up by vibrating. Nevertheless, they allowed keeping contacts and information about appointments.
The company tried to enter the market of music players. So, Zume was supposed to become a new competitor of Apple’s IPod. Indeed, it ended up a huge flop. Despite the device was good enough, it didn’t handle the competition.
Success factors
Definitely, Microsoft’s success is not just luck. Many researchers assert that constant software updates and regular new products result in Microsoft’s superiority on the market. Besides, the company is conquering new tech fields, penetrating smartphones and launching tablets. On top of that, Windows 7 is considered one of the growth causes.
How do you feel about Microsoft’s story? What influenced their success? Text in the comments ????
