Acquired Microsoft Volume I
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Apr 22, 2024 This podcast dives deep into the incredible journey of Microsoft, from its humble beginnings to becoming a tech titan. It showcases Bill Gates' formative years and the visionary partnership with Paul Allen. Discover the shift from DOS to Windows and the launch of the game-changing Windows 95. The rivalry with IBM and Apple adds thrilling layers to this tech saga. The rise of personal computing, innovative business strategies, and the pivotal role of software licensing are all thrillingly captured, painting a portrait of a colossal company that reshaped the industry.
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The IBM Deal
- Microsoft made a pivotal deal with IBM: a fixed fee for DOS, but retained licensing rights.
- This allowed Microsoft to become the OS standard, licensing DOS to IBM's competitors, the PC clones.
Simonyi's Influence
- Microsoft hired Charles Simonyi from Xerox PARC, bringing GUI expertise.
- Simonyi, like Steve Jobs, benefited from Xerox PARC's innovations, leading development of Word and Multiplan.
Excel's Mac Debut
- Microsoft launched Excel first on the Mac, recognizing the GUI's potential.
- This strategic move capitalized on Apple's platform to showcase Excel's graphical capabilities.
