The First Use of “Micro-soft” in a Letter to Paul Allen

On November 29, 1975, a significant moment in the history of technology occurred when Bill Gates used the term “Micro-soft” in a letter to his business partner, Paul Allen. This marked the first recorded use of the name that would eventually become synonymous with one of the world’s largest and most influential technology companies, Microsoft Corporation.

Context and Background

In the mid-1970s, the personal computer industry was in its infancy. Bill Gates and Paul Allen, two young and ambitious programmers, were keenly aware of the potential for software development in this emerging field. They had already collaborated on a project to create a BASIC interpreter for the Altair 8800, an early personal computer developed by Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems (MITS).

Key Events Leading Up to the Letter

• January 1975: The Altair 8800 was featured on the cover of Popular Electronics, sparking interest in personal computing.
• February 1975: Gates and Allen developed a version of the BASIC programming language for the Altair, which they demonstrated to MITS. This led to a partnership with MITS to distribute their software.
• Formation of a Partnership: Gates and Allen formalized their collaboration, initially without a specific company name.

The Letter and the Name “Micro-soft”

In his letter to Paul Allen dated November 29, 1975, Bill Gates referred to their partnership as “Micro-soft,” a portmanteau of “microcomputer” and “software.” This name succinctly captured the essence of their business focus: developing software for microcomputers.

Aftermath and Significance

• Formal Incorporation: The name “Micro-soft” was later simplified to “Microsoft,” and the company was officially registered as Microsoft Corporation on November 26, 1976.
• Growth and Impact: Microsoft grew rapidly, becoming a dominant force in the software industry. Its products, including the Windows operating system and Microsoft Office suite, have become staples in both personal and professional computing environments.
• Legacy: The use of the name “Micro-soft” in Gates’ letter marked the beginning of a brand that would revolutionize the technology industry and influence the digital age.

Broader Historical Significance

The establishment of Microsoft played a pivotal role in the personal computer revolution, democratizing access to computing technology and fostering innovation. Gates and Allen’s vision and entrepreneurship set the stage for the development of a global technology ecosystem that continues to evolve today.

This early use of the name “Micro-soft” is a testament to the foresight and ambition of its founders, who recognized the transformative potential of software long before it became a ubiquitous part of everyday life.