Ready for a blast from the past? Ray Ozzie, Microsoft's chief software architect, is blogging again after migrating from Windows Live Spaces to Wordpress. His first new entry is about a decades-old press packet that he found. Inside were the announcement details for Windows 1.0
Believe it or not, these were the words about a new product family that would change computing:
BELLEVUE, WA -- NOVEMBER 20, 1985 --Microsoft Corporation announced today the retail shipment of the Microsoft Windows operating environment to dealers and distributors.Microsoft Windows extends the features of the DOS operating system, yet is compatible with most existing applications that run under DOS. Windows lets users integrate the tasks they perform with their computer by providing the ability to work with several programs at the same time and easily switch between them without having to quit and restart individual applications. In addition, it provides a rich foundation for a new generation of applications."Windows provides unprecedented power to users today and a foundation for hardware and software advancements of the next few years," said Bill Gates, chairman of Microsoft. "It is unique software designed for the serious PC user, who places high value on the productivity that a personal computer can bring."
Also a part of the package was a screenshot of Windows 1.0's user interface. No fancy Aero effects back then!
Source: SeattlePI
