It’s been 40 years since Microsoft introduced its iconic WYSIWYG text editor, Word, on October 25, 1983. To commemorate this milestone, Microsoft has released neat graphics revealing the app’s journey and teasing upcoming updates in a blog post.
From its modest beginnings, Word has evolved into one of the most popular office tools worldwide, with widespread familiarity. As we celebrate its 40th birthday, let’s take a look at its journey and what lies ahead.
The timeline highlighting Word’s significant milestones includes its original release in 1983, important features like AutoCorrect in Word 97, the significant redesign in Microsoft Word 2003, advanced image editing capabilities in Word 2010, an improved ribbon in Word 2013, and enhanced collaboration with Microsoft 365’s long-awaited dark mode.
Microsoft is now eagerly looking forward to the future of its legendary word processor.
As we envision the future, our focus remains on building upon the foundation laid in 1983. We are committed to ensuring Word can efficiently support users in completing any writing or reading task, from simple to complex.
The company aims to integrate Copilot into Word, enhance Word for the Web, refine collaborative writing capabilities, and provide developers with tools to create amazing custom workflows.
Interestingly, the blog post also acknowledges the Apple Lisa, which fundamentally reimagined the concept of a personal computer.
Additionally, we recently published a similar retrospective story, delving into the confusing release dates, development history, and intriguing facts about Microsoft Word over its 40-year reign as the go-to text editor on various platforms, including Windows.
Cheers to the next 40 years of Microsoft Word and Office!
