Bill Gates releases Altair BASIC source code in honour of Microsoft's 50th anniversary
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, celebrated the company's 50th anniversary by releasing the source code for Altair BASIC, Microsoft's first software product.
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The code, written by Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, was the basis for the company's creation. Gates called it "the coolest code" he ever wrote and emphasised that it symbolised Microsoft's humble beginnings.
Altair BASIC was developed for the Altair 8800 computer, inspired by an article in Popular Electronics magazine. Gates and Allen suggested that the computer's manufacturer, MITS, create a BASIC programming language interpreter that would allow users to write their own programmes. Development took several months, and the product was Microsoft's first step toward success.
Gates said the company's 50th anniversary is not only a cause for pride, but also an opportunity to remember the contributions of leaders such as Steve Ballmer and Satya Nadella, as well as all the employees who have helped Microsoft reach its current heights. The release of the Altair BASIC source code was a symbolic gesture to emphasise the importance of the company's innovation and legacy.
Source: thurrott, gatesnotes
