Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How did Bill Gates and Paul Allen contribute to early personal computers?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
personal computer
Programmers may use computer science to design portable computers such as laptops.
Bill Gates and Paul Allen were instrumental in the development of early personal computers by providing the essential software needed to make these machines functional for users.12
Their contributions included:
- Adapting BASIC: Recognizing that microcomputers required high-level languages to run applications, the duo adapted BASICāa language previously used on large computersāfor use on the MITS Altair.132
- Founding Microsoft: Following the success of their BASIC project, they formed Microsoft in 1975 to develop software for the emerging microcomputer industry.132
- MS-DOS and the IBM PC: Allen was influential in securing a license for an operating system that became MS-DOS. Gates then licensed this software to IBM for its first personal computer, which set the industry standard and established Microsoft as a dominant force in the PC revolution.42
By creating the foundational software that allowed hardware to perform useful tasks, Gates and Allen helped transition computers from hobbyist curiosities to essential tools for business and individuals.14