Cheers to 50 years
In 1975, childhood friends Bill Gates and Paul Allen dared to dream bigger than what reality dictated at the time—giving people everywhere a whole new way to live, work, and play. And while times have changed, and technology has changed, our dream remains the same: empowering every person on the planet to achieve more. To celebrate these last 50 years, we’re looking back at some iconic moments from our history, sharing some stories, and celebrating all the amazing things you’ve done with Microsoft tech. Because change needs makers!
Games need changers
Since introducing the first Xbox console back in 2001, gaming has become more than entertainment. It’s become an escape (sometimes literally) like when you’re battling Lilith in Diablo IV. It’s become a community like when you’re squadding up with friends in Halo. And it’s become a way to learn new skills like when you’re flying a plane in Microsoft Flight Simulator.
For millions, it’s also become a safe space. And a way to process emotions during challenging times. In fact, people everywhere are finding new ways to make a difference in the world through the joy of gaming. Like Jesse, a strategic account director here at Microsoft, who brought Xbox consoles and games to the kids at his local children’s hospital. There, amongst the laughter and fist pumps, he saw firsthand how gaming can be … well … a gamechanger!
It’s not just about pixels and controllers—it’s about smiles and laughter and connection. In those moments, play becomes hope. I’ll never forget how powerful that felt.
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Knowledge needs sharers
Back in the ‘90s, instantaneous communication tools like email and MSN Messenger were revolutionary. Especially compared to alternatives like snail mail. Then Skype came along with video calling. Now Teams is here! Connecting us to our friends, family, and coworkers every day with the click of a single button. And tech that feels like second nature.
For people like Patty, a program manager at Microsoft who helped schools transition to Microsoft 365 during the pandemic, speed and ease are more than product features. They’re lifelines. Opening up new paths for learning and breaking down barriers—from distance to access to language.
Growing up in a household where only Spanish was spoken, I know how critical the right tools are, like translation features in Teams. For me, it’s about making sure no opportunity is ever lost in translation.
Trails need blazers
Remember when software came in boxes? When CD-ROMs felt like the height of innovation? When you had to actually leave the office if you wanted to get Microsoft Office?!
Then, in an instant, everything went digital. Downloads replaced discs. Clouds replaced drives. And now, the latest software is ready for you every time you open your computer. The transformation is pretty amazing! Especially for Michael, a leader at our Taiwan engineering site, who’s been working hard to make sure our tech is working hard for you in the era of AI. So that all of you trailblazers out there can keep doing your thing.
Since joining Microsoft in 1997, I’ve seen it all. From boxed software to cloud-power and now AI, transforming the way we work. Every step has been about making life better for people.
More stories
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Deck out your desktop
We’re bringing back the classics with an exclusive collection of Windows 50th anniversary wallpapers.
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Party in your browser
Bring the celebration where you browse—50th and nostalgia themes now available in Microsoft Edge.
Worlds need builders
For some people, it’s about conquering a blank canvas. For others, it’s about building the canvas in the first place. And for others still, it’s all of the above. Thinking, rethinking, tinkering, and polishing—until things are just the way you want. Or better.
We’re talking about Minecraft, of course! The ultimate sandbox game, where creativity and adventure are taken to a whole new level. And the players are always at the center. Just ask Torfi, one of the creative directors of the game—and now producer of A MINECRAFT MOVIE! As Torfi and team work on Minecraft, they always ensure the main character Steve is a blank slate. Someone everybody can see themselves in as they get building. And with millions of builders today, the possibilities for change and makers are endless!
Minecraft doesn’t have a hero with a story or background. Each player’s adventure is different, and it takes place in a world that acts as an infinite canvas for their individual creativity.
Go behind-the-scenes
Go behind the scenes
Step into the world of creativity with a behind-the-scenes view of A MINECRAFT MOVIE!
Ground needs breakers
What’s helping tennis pros prep for the big match? Designers dream up new styles? Curators create more immersive exhibits? The answer is AI. And some of the world’s top athletes, fashion houses, and art museums are tapping into its magic to enrich our favorite pastimes.
Ankita from the strategic partnerships team is one of the people here at Microsoft whose job it is to connect industry icons and professionals with the tech they need to stay on the cutting edge of awesome—and inspire fans like you to do the same.
AI is enhancing how we interact with our hobbies and passions, in a meaningful way.
Microsoft AI Skills Fest
What’s your story?
We’ve dropped a bunch of backdrops in Microsoft Designer for you to customize and share your story. With 50 years of history, we all have a memory with Microsoft tech.
We’d love to hear your favorite tech memories, moments of impact, or Microsoft story. Share it on social with #Microsoft50.
Inspiration in 60 seconds
Hear from changemakers who are bringing their big ideas to life with Microsoft
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Tyla-Lauren is a fashion queen who’s styling, organizing, and creating to build a curated experience for her community without the high price tag.
Literacy educator Kelsey Russell tells us what media literacy really is and encourages people to pause, question, and navigate information with more intention.
Researcher, wellness educator, and children’s book author Shania Bhopa is making health and wellness more accessible for the next generation.
Celebrate with a Surface Sweepstakes
Surface is joining in on the 50th Anniversary fun too! Enter for a chance to win an exclusive Surface Laptop, Copilot+ PC, with unique touches that celebrate Microsoft’s journey. Follow the steps below by 11:59PM PT on April 16:
- Follow @surface on Instagram
- Post a pic of your favorite Surface on-the-go—whether at a café, library, or on an adventure, we want to see it!
- Share why you love it in the caption
- Add #Microsoft50SurfaceSweepstakes and #Microsoft50
Good luck!
Participants must be in the USA and Puerto Rico. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. 4/4/25 – 4/16/25. See Official Rules: https://msft.it/SurfaceSweepstakes
Change needs makers
At the heart of every innovation is a passionate person.
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