Microsoft

Microsoft was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen on April 4, 1975. It started as a small software company and grew to become one of the largest technology corporations in the world.

In 1980, Microsoft formed a partnership with IBM to bundle Microsoft's operating system with IBM computers. This partnership led to the development of IBM PC DOS, which became the standard operating system for IBM's personal computers.

On June 25, 1981, Microsoft officially incorporated.

On August 12, 1981, IBM launched its personal computer with Microsoft's 16-bit operating system, MS-DOS 1.0.

On March 13, 1986, Microsoft went public, with an initial public offering that raised $61 million. This event marked a significant milestone in the company's history and contributed to its rapid growth and success.

In 1988, Paul Allen, one of the co-founders of Microsoft, left the company, marking a significant change in its leadership and direction.

On August 1, 1989, Microsoft introduced the earliest version of its Office suite, which became a cornerstone of productivity applications and significantly influenced the software industry.

On August 24, 1995, Microsoft released Windows 95, which became a global sensation with its iconic Start menu, solidifying Microsoft's position as a tech behemoth and dominating the software market.

The Justice Department accused Microsoft of attempting to evade a federal court order by offering commercially worthless software and requested the judge to find Microsoft in contempt.

The Justice Department and 20 state attorneys general filed a lawsuit against Microsoft, alleging that the company illegally hindered competition to maintain and expand its dominance in the software market.

On April 3, 1999, a judge found that Microsoft Corp. violated the Sherman Antitrust Act by maintaining its monopoly power through anticompetitive means and attempting to monopolize the Web browser market. The judge also ruled that Microsoft unlawfully tied its Web browser to its operating system, opening the possibility of lawsuits under state anti-competition laws.

On January 13, 2000, Bill Gates, the Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, announced his decision to step down from his position and promote Steve Ballmer as the new President. Gates continued to be involved with Microsoft until February 2014.

On October 25, 2001, Microsoft launched the Windows XP operating system.

On November 15, 2001, Microsoft launched Windows XP, a major release of the Windows operating system, which had a significant impact on the computer industry.

On November 22, 2005, Microsoft unveiled the Xbox 360 gaming console.

On July 20, 2006, Microsoft introduced the Xbox 360 gaming console, marking a significant milestone in the gaming industry.

Microsoft globally released Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office System on January 30, 2007.

On June 27, 2008, Bill Gates shifted from his daily responsibilities at Microsoft to focus more on his work at The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

On May 28, 2009, Microsoft unveiled Bing, its search engine, aiming to compete in the search market.

On October 22, 2009, Microsoft introduced the Windows 7 operating system.

On June 28, 2011, Microsoft officially launched Office 365, a cloud-based subscription service that provides access to various Microsoft Office applications and productivity tools.

On September 12, 2012, Microsoft released Windows Server 2012, the successor to Windows Server 2008 R2, with improved features and capabilities for server management and virtualization.

On October 17, 2013, Microsoft launched Windows 8.1, an updated version of its operating system.

On February 4, 2014, Microsoft launched the Xbox One.

On March 27, 2014, Satya Nadella was named the chief executive officer of Microsoft.

On January 21, 2015, Microsoft announced the HoloLens, the world's first holographic headset, opening new possibilities for augmented reality technology.

On September 22, 2015, Microsoft officially launched Windows 10, introducing a new operating system with enhanced features and capabilities.

Microsoft launched Microsoft 365 for Business on June 1, 2017, providing a unified productivity and security solution for businesses.

Microsoft expanded its cloud services with Azure and Dynamics 365, offering a comprehensive suite of cloud-based solutions for businesses.

Microsoft Teams, a collaboration platform, was launched on November 2, 2017, enabling teamwork and communication within organizations.

On November 28, 2017, Microsoft launched the Xbox One X, a powerful gaming console offering enhanced graphics and performance for gamers.

On October 26, 2018, Microsoft finalized the acquisition of GitHub, a significant move that expanded their presence in the software development community.

In July 2019, Microsoft unveiled the HoloLens 2, a significant advancement in mixed reality technology with improved capabilities and features.

Microsoft revealed its intention to purchase ZeniMax Media and its subsidiary, Bethesda Softworks, in a significant acquisition move within the gaming industry.

Microsoft launched Azure Space, a cloud computing service designed for space-related projects and applications, marking the company's entry into the space industry.

On July 14, 2021, Microsoft unveiled Windows 11, the latest version of its operating system, featuring a new user interface, gaming improvements, and enhanced productivity tools.

On October 5, 2021, Microsoft released Windows 11, showcasing the company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge operating systems and embracing innovation in the ever-evolving world of technology.

On November 9, 2021, Microsoft unveiled Windows 365, a cloud-based service that allows users to access Windows 10 or Windows 11 from any device, providing flexibility and scalability for businesses and individuals.

Microsoft completed the acquisition of Nuance, a significant move to expand its capabilities in the field of artificial intelligence and healthcare technology.

Microsoft completed the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, a major move in the gaming industry.

Microsoft makes a significant investment of $1.5 billion in the AI company G42, showcasing their commitment to the AI sector.