Microsoft is a word that conjures up images of dominance, power, and for some, monopoly. The company has, for many years, been in control of the PC software industry. Most new PCs are shipped with Windows, Microsoft’s flagship operating system, and the company shows no signs of losing market share despite fierce, intelligent competition from its rivals. Bill Gates, Microsoft’s founder, has been from time to time the world’s richest man, and the company employs thousands. In fact, it is difficult to imagine what would happen if Microsoft ceased to exist. Here are a couple thoughts about Microsoft’s hegemony.
Apple Rivalry
From Microsoft’s early days, Apple has been a rival. Apple sells the famous Macintosh computer, and has come out with many other popular devices, like the iPhone, iPad, iPod, and many more. Even in the beginning, Apple competed with Microsoft for market share. Though the results of that competition are now clear, it is interesting to realize that even back in the 1980s, both companies were forging their identities. Apple has always marketed itself as an intelligent, creative way to buck the system, while Microsoft has strived to portray an image of stability, usefulness, and practicality. Though Microsoft enjoys a much larger market share in the PC industry, it is now clear that there is plenty of room in the marketplace for both companies.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
After making billions of dollars from Microsoft, Bill Gates decided to put philanthropy first. He and his wife started a charitable foundation, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which endeavors to solve the world’s most pressing problems. The foundation has given away billions of dollars to causes like fighting malaria and poverty, and has enlisted the help of other wealthy people, like Oprah Winfrey and Warren Buffett. Though giving away money is a way to avoid paying taxes on that money, it’s clear that the foundation has helped many people throughout the world.