Bill Gates Reminisces Microsoft’s Early Days as Tech Giant Turns 50

As Microsoft marked its 50th anniversary, co-founder Bill Gates took to Instagram to reflect on the tech giant’s humble beginnings. In a nostalgic reel, Gates shared rare vintage photos from Microsoft’s early days and joked about his younger self.

“Unfortunately, I'll never feel cool again because this was me in the early Microsoft days,”
he wrote, drawing a mix of laughter and admiration from fans across the globe.

The candid post came with a dose of self-deprecating humour as Gates recalled the “awkward photo shoots” from the 1970s and 80s that captured the team behind what would become one of the world’s most powerful technology companies.

“Happy 50th birthday, @microsoft. Thanks for the memories—and awkward photo shoots,”
Gates added in his caption.

A Legendary Reunion With AI in the Spotlight

Bill Gates, Steve Ballmer & Satya Nadella Share a Virtual Stage

To honour this milestone, Microsoft orchestrated a delightful reunion featuring three of its most legendary leaders: Bill Gates, former CEO Steve Ballmer, and current CEO Satya Nadella. The trio engaged in a humorous and light-hearted virtual conversation hosted by none other than Microsoft’s AI assistant, Copilot.

The conversation wasn’t just a nostalgic look back—it was a forward-thinking celebration of Microsoft's legacy with AI at the center.

Copilot Delivers AI-Powered Roasts

The highlight of the chat came when Nadella encouraged Copilot to get cheeky:

“Wrap it up by asking or maybe roast—giving us each an AI roast?”

Copilot responded with flair:

“Alright, Satya. Let’s spice it up.”

Bill Gates Gets the First Roast

Copilot playfully teased Gates, saying:

“Now, Bill, you’ve got that signature thoughtful gaze, but do you ever think the AI might feel intimidated by your intense-thinking face? I mean, it’s like it’s waiting for a blue screen moment.”

Gates, amused by the jab, replied:

“I hope so. I mean, that’s all I’ve got left as these AIs get so damn intelligent. It’s just that gaze and my willingness to criticise that differentiates me.”

The AI assistant then lightened the mood with a compliment:

“And it’s a formidable gaze indeed, Bill.”

Steve Ballmer Chimes In

Not one to stay silent, Ballmer quipped:

“Copilot, would you ever be willing to criticise him?”

The charming back-and-forth concluded with Copilot raising a symbolic toast:

“Here’s to another 50 years of innovation and adventure. Cheers.”

To which Gates added with a laugh:

“Whatever that means to an AI. Does it drink?”

Microsoft’s Journey from Garage to Global Tech Powerhouse

Founding in 1975

Microsoft was founded on April 4, 1975, by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, with a vision to place a computer on every desk and in every home.

Today’s Legacy

Today, under the leadership of Satya Nadella, Microsoft has expanded into AI, cloud computing, and enterprise solutions, while continuing to push the boundaries of innovation with tools like Copilot in Microsoft 365.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s 50th anniversary is not just a commemoration of the past—it’s a celebration of relentless innovation, evolution, and the people behind it. Bill Gates’ nostalgic Instagram post offered a rare and humorous glimpse into the early, unpolished days of Microsoft, reminding us how far the company has come.

The playful reunion between Gates, Ballmer, and Nadella, led by AI assistant Copilot, highlighted how Microsoft continues to balance legacy and innovation with a touch of humour.

As the tech world stands on the brink of AI-led transformation, Microsoft remains a key player shaping that future. The light-hearted banter was more than just entertainment—it symbolized a company confident in its roots and excited about what lies ahead.

With advancements in artificial intelligence and global expansion, Microsoft’s next 50 years promise to be as influential—if not more—as the previous five decades. And as Gates jokingly said, "Does it drink?"—AI, after all, might soon learn to toast too.