Microsoft Introduces Windows 1.0... Wait, What?

Update: Since teasing Windows 1.0 on Twitter, Microsoft has now launched an app called Windows 1.11 which is a tie-in for the latest season of Netflix hit Stranger Things.

The app description reads as follows, "Experience 1985 nostalgia with a special edition Windows 10 PC app inspired by Windows 1.0—but one that's been taken over by the Upside Down from Stranger Things. Explore the mysteries and secrets plaguing Hawkins, unlock unique show content and easter eggs, and play retro games and puzzles—all building off Stranger Things 3. Join Eleven, Steve, Dustin and gang as they seek to save Hawkins and the world. Embrace the 80s and grab your hairspray, because it's basically the raddest show companion experience ever. But fair warning: beware the Mind Flayer."

You can find the app in the Microsoft Store.

Original Story:

The official Windows Twitter account tweeted a rather unusual video yesterday introducing Windows 1.0. It's unclear as to why.

As you can see below, the tweet includes a video which works backwards through the versions of Windows until it reaches Windows 1.0 released back in 1985. The text reads, "Introducing the all-new Windows 1.0, with MS-Dos Executive, Clock, and more!!"

Introducing the all-new Windows 1.0, with MS-Dos Executive, Clock, and more!! ?? ?? pic.twitter.com/guU4QxwsGG

— Windows (@Windows) July 1, 2019

When Twitter user Jay asks "Guys, are you seriously okay?" The Windows account replies with, "Never been better! You?" and then when asked why they created this tweet the response reads, "Because it comes with REVERSI!"

The reference to Reversi is strong evidence that the tweet and video are linked to Stranger Things, which is set in 1985, the year Windows 1.0 launched. Reversi is played with discs which are light on one side and dark on the other. Stranger Things has the real world and an alternate dimension called the Upside Down. You could say the real world is the light side and the Upside Down is the dark side.

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Another clue is the timing of the Windows tweet as the third season of Stranger Things launches on July 4. The tweet was made live three days before the third series is available to watch. Beyond that, I'd guess the third season may actually include shots of Windows 1.0 running on a computer and Microsoft has decided to have some fun with it. We'll find out if I'm right on Thursday.

Editor's Note: This story was updated at 9:20am ET on July 8 with confirmation of a Windows 1.11 app launch by Microsoft.

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