Microsoft’s Makeover: the New Logo
Microsoft has changed their logo. The new design was revealed last week…
The logo has evolved since 1975 but the current incarnation appeared in 1987 and remained unchanged for 25 years:
The new logo is the first to feature a separate icon and color. The colors match those applied to the symbols for Windows 8 (the neutral light blue), Office (the active orangery-red) and Xbox (the relaxed light green). That leaves a mysterious yellow. My guess: it’ll be applied to Microsoft’s touch devices such as Windows Phone and Surface tablets.
On the plus side:
- it’s a clearer more modern design
- it’s simple; logos should always be simple
- it matches Microsoft’s more-focused consumer product line
- it embodies the friendlier, cuddlier image the company is working hard to portray
- I don’t hate it.
On the negative side:
- does it reflect serious business software required by corporate users?
- why doesn’t it apply 3D depth effects used on the other logos?
- will it work in gray-scale?
- is it distinctive enough?
- does it look too much like the old Windows logo?
On that last point, I’m not convinced it matters. Microsoft is inextricably linked to Windows, although having both logos on the same box might look odd? I suspect the branding team wanted it to be reminiscent of Windows 8 UI style (The Interface Previously Known As Metro — or TIPKAM. Microsoft — if you can’t think of a better name, have that one on me).
Microsoft’s early logos were obviously designs of the 1970s and 1980s, but the current version has fared remarkably well for its age. I never really understood the slash between the o and s, but it still looks reasonably fresh in 2012.
There’s nothing particularly good or bad you can say about the new Microsoft logo. Perhaps its neutrality is its biggest strength? But will it provide the company with another 25 years of uninterrupted branding? I have my doubts.
Over to you. Does the new Microsoft logo inspire you or should the designer have their artistic license revoked?
Frequently Asked Questions about Microsoft Logo
What is the significance of the Microsoft logo?
The Microsoft logo is a representation of the company’s commitment to making technology accessible to everyone. The four squares in the logo represent the company’s diverse product portfolio, including Windows, Office, Xbox, and Surface. The choice of colors – red, green, blue, and yellow – is a nod to the original Windows logo, symbolizing a sense of familiarity and continuity.
How has the Microsoft logo evolved over the years?
The Microsoft logo has undergone several changes since its inception. The original logo, used from 1975 to 1987, featured the company’s name in a disco-style font. In 1987, the logo was updated to a more modern, sans-serif font. The current logo, introduced in 2012, includes a symbol for the first time – four colored squares representing Microsoft’s range of products.
Why did Microsoft change its logo in 2012?
The 2012 logo change was part of a broader rebranding effort by Microsoft. The company wanted a logo that would better represent its diverse product portfolio and its vision for the future. The new logo, with its simple, clean design and use of color, was designed to be easily recognizable and versatile across various platforms and devices.
What do the colors in the Microsoft logo represent?
The colors in the Microsoft logo – red, green, blue, and yellow – are a nod to the original Windows logo. They represent the company’s diverse product portfolio, with each color representing a different product category. The exact meaning of each color has not been officially disclosed by Microsoft.
How does the Microsoft logo reflect the company’s brand identity?
The Microsoft logo reflects the company’s brand identity in several ways. Its simplicity and clean design represent the company’s focus on innovation and user-friendly technology. The use of color adds a sense of familiarity and continuity, linking the current logo to the company’s past. The four squares symbolize the company’s diverse product portfolio, reflecting its commitment to providing a wide range of technology solutions.
Has the Microsoft logo been well-received?
The Microsoft logo has generally been well-received. Many have praised its simplicity and versatility, noting that it is easily recognizable and works well across various platforms and devices. However, like any design, it has also faced some criticism. Some feel that it is too simplistic or lacks creativity.
How does the Microsoft logo compare to other tech company logos?
Compared to other tech company logos, the Microsoft logo stands out for its use of color and its simple, clean design. While many tech logos are monochromatic, the Microsoft logo uses four different colors. Its design is also more straightforward than many other tech logos, which often feature complex symbols or abstract designs.
What is the font used in the Microsoft logo?
The font used in the Microsoft logo is called Segoe. It is a sans-serif typeface that was designed by Steve Matteson and is used in many of Microsoft’s products and marketing materials.
Who designed the Microsoft logo?
The current Microsoft logo was designed by the company’s in-house design team. The team worked closely with Microsoft’s senior leadership to create a logo that would represent the company’s vision and values.
Can the Microsoft logo be used by others?
The Microsoft logo is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation and is protected by copyright laws. It cannot be used without the company’s express permission. Unauthorized use of the logo could result in legal action.
Craig is a freelance UK web consultant who built his first page for IE2.0 in 1995. Since that time he's been advocating standards, accessibility, and best-practice HTML5 techniques. He's created enterprise specifications, websites and online applications for companies and organisations including the UK Parliament, the European Parliament, the Department of Energy & Climate Change, Microsoft, and more. He's written more than 1,000 articles for SitePoint and you can find him @craigbuckler.
