Windows XP Turns 22: A Journey From Start To A Blissful End

Microsoft's Windows XP operating system was launched 22 years ago today, Oct. 25, 2001. It revolutionized personal computing and turned into an iconic version of Windows very quickly, thanks to a user-friendly interface and a more stable code.

Launched in the aftermath of the Windows Me debacle, Windows XP was one of the longest-running operating systems from Microsoft Corp. MSFT. Although Windows Vista, its successor, was launched six years later, XP remained popular due to a range of issues with Vista.

The “Bliss” After The Windows Me Debacle

The reception of Windows XP was phenomenal thanks to its sleek, modern interface and robust features. The famous “Bliss” desktop wallpaper featuring a serene, rolling green hill and blue sky, became one of the most recognized and beloved backgrounds in computing history.

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Codenamed "Whistler", Windows XP was greeted with enthusiasm by both businesses and individual users. Its graphical user interface, sleek start menu, and enhanced multimedia capabilities were widely praised.

Reeling from the issues that plagued Windows Me, Microsoft's core focus with Windows XP was stability. Combined with a refreshed design, it became the go-to operating system for millions of users worldwide.

Microsoft sold over 400 million copies of Windows XP in the first five years since its launch. It is estimated that over its life, more than 500 million copies were sold.

Windows XP remained the most popular operating system till 2012, 11 years since its initial launch in 2001.

Even today, some legacy systems and embedded devices run on Windows XP, a testament to its enduring legacy in the world of computing.

End Of Life

But like all good things, the era of Windows XP eventually came to an end. In April 2014, Microsoft officially ended support for Windows XP, urging users to upgrade to more modern systems.

Since then, Microsoft has launched six new versions of Windows – Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11.

Despite its discontinuation, Windows XP remains a beloved relic of the past, a reminder of a time when personal computing took a significant leap forward.

Happy 22nd, Windows XP!

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