Microsoft has been around for decades, dating back to 1975 with its BASIC software. BASIC was written for the Altair 8800 microcomputer built by MITS (Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems). Bill Gates and Paul Allen created the software when MITS approached them, needing a programming language for their personal computers. Back then, the brand was referenced as Micro-Soft in a letter from Bill Gates to Paul Allen. The brand had not been established yet.
