Microsoft Corporation

Origins and Location

Microsoft Corporation is headquartered in Redmond, Washington, United States.

Company History

Founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, Microsoft began as a small software company focused on BASIC interpreters for the Altair 8800. The company's breakthrough came with MS-DOS in the early 1980s, followed by the revolutionary Windows operating system in 1985. Microsoft went public in 1986 and became one of the world's most valuable companies through the PC revolution.

Mission

To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

Vision

To help people and businesses throughout the world realize their full potential.

Values

• Respect: We are each responsible for creating an inclusive culture
• Integrity: We each take ownership for our decisions and actions
• Accountability: We are committed to being our best and helping others be their best

Products

Microsoft's product portfolio includes Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office suite, Xbox gaming consoles, Surface devices, Azure cloud services, and various software applications.

Services

Cloud computing services through Azure, consulting services, technical support, software-as-a-service offerings, and enterprise solutions.

Latest Technologies and Trends

Microsoft is heavily investing in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, mixed reality, quantum computing, and sustainability initiatives. The company has made significant investments in OpenAI and is integrating AI across its product portfolio.

Curiosities

• Microsoft was originally called 'Micro-Soft' (with a hyphen)
• The company's first office was in Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Bill Gates and Paul Allen were childhood friends who shared a passion for computers