VisiCalc, the first spreadsheet program for personal computers.
Richards, Mark. "VisiCalc software." 1979, Personal Software, Inc. Computer History Museum.
User-friendly Operating Systems
Manufacturers now had the technology to make personal-sized computers, but the software still consisted of complicated codes on a blank screen. Creative programmers set to the task of designing computer applications that anyone could enjoy using.
Early PC Software
Advertisement for Atari 800
Wichary, Marcin. "Atari 800 advertisement." 1981, Atari Corporation. Computer History Museum.
"... uncompromisingly spectacular display capabilities without loss of computer power needed to carry out the demands of your program."
- Atari Adverstisement, 1981
Microsoft Releases Windows
Microsoft responded to Apple’s Macintosh with the release an operating program featuring simplified commands and eye-catching graphics, called Windows.
Windows 1.0 (1985) allowed limited multitasking and controlled the graphical interface with tiled windows
"Windows 1.0 Screenshot." 1985, Microsoft Corporation. Computer History Museum.
Windows 3.1 (1992) improved the software and was soon widely adopted as the default program for PCs.
"Windows 3.1 Screenshot." 1980-2005, Microsoft Corporation. Computer History Museum.
Windows 95 (1995) system included “Plug and Play” for easily installing new devices and added the taskbar and Start button menu to the desktop.
Warren, James. "Windows 95 Screenshot," 1995, Microsoft Corporation. Computer History Museum.