$1.1 billion spent by web giant - but why? Here's all you need to know
Microsoft unveils first new logo in 25 years
The logo helps signal a new era, Microsoft say the time seemed right to introduce the new logo.
MicrosoftShow Thumbnails
2012 Microsoft logo
Microsoft has taken the wraps off its brand new logo - the logo introduces a completely new look and feel.
The revamped design is the first major change to the company's iconic Microsoft logo in 25 years and notably is the first time "Microsoft" has been accompanied by an image. Crucially the new logo bears some resemblance to past designs found in promotion for Microsoft's Windows operating system.
The new MIcrosoft logo seen inside the Boston Microsoft store.
The logo was revealed by Chris Capossela, Microsoft's Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) - in Boston as he dropped the curtain to open a new Microsoft Store. Microsoft Stores in Bellevue and Seattle also unveiled the new logo.
The internet was whipped-up into a frenzy when Microsoft's Jeff Hansen dropped the news on the official Microsoft blog. Hansen began: "The new logo celebrates Microsoft's heritage and at the same time embraces its future."
"We're really entering a new era. We're reimagining our most significant products, and that reimagining is as
much about Microsoft as our products. If there was ever a good time to introduce a new logo to signal that change, it's now."
Windows reimagined
It certainly is a busy time for Microsoft - they are currently prepping the next version of Windows for launch on 26 October - Windows 8, along with the new Microsoft Surface tablet.
The updated Windows Phone - Windows Phone 8 - is also expected before the year end. A new version of the Office productivity suite was recently made available to download as a Consumer Preview.
The logotype is based on the Segoe font, which is used in Microsoft's products and marketing communications.
Although the new logo is a monumental change, it is actually the fifth iteration of the Microsoft brand. On the left you can see all of Microsoft's logos through the ages - from the space-age 'metal' of the 1980's through to the colourful technicolour of today.
What do YOU think of the new design? If you're a graphic designer we want to hear from you too - can you offer some constructive criticism?
related stories on msn
latest tech news
Our essential music streaming guide for your laptops, tablets and smartphones
We hunt out the best tech deals on the web right now
