Microsoft confirms the new Windows 8 logo

By +Frank B.
in The Fast Ring (Insider Previews)

 Share

Recommended Posts

Grand Master

+Frank B. Subscriber²

Posted
  • Subscriber²
Posted

Redesigning the Windows Logo

We have said that Windows 8 is a complete reimagination of the Windows operating system. Nothing has been left unexplored, including the Windows logo, to evaluate how it held up to modern PC sensibilities. The Windows logo is a strong and widely recognized mark but when we stepped back and analyzed it, we realized an evolution of our logo would better reflect our Metro style design principles and we also felt there was an opportunity to reconnect with some of the powerful characteristics of previous incarnations.

We had a very short list of agencies that we wanted to work with on the redesign of the logo and were thrilled when Pentagram agreed to join us in the project. Pentagram?s illustrious history speaks for itself, but we were particularly attracted to their sense of classic graphic design which fit well with our Metro design principles.

Early in the development cycle for Windows 8, in a conference room on the Microsoft campus, we assembled a kick off meeting with Paula Scher, Michael Beirut and Daniel Weil from Pentagram and a few designers and marketing leaders from Windows and across the company. The team spent a full day sharing some of the Metro style design philosophy; the Windows brand history and values as well as graphic design and technology industry trends.

"To see what is in front of one's nose needs a constant struggle."- George Orwell

That is the feeling we had when Paula Scher (from the renowned Pentagram design agency) showed us her sketches for the new Windows logo.

It?s a window? not a flag

Paula asked us a simple question, ?your name is Windows. Why are you a flag??

In some ways you can trace the evolution of the Windows logo in parallel with the advancements of the technology used to create logos. From the simple two color version in Windows 1.0 to the intricate and detailed renderings in Windows Vista and Windows 7, each change makes sense in the context in which it was created. As computing capabilities increased, so did the use of that horse power to render more colors, better fonts, and more detailed and life-like 3D visual effects like depth, shadows, and materiality. We have evolved from a world of rudimentary low resolution graphics to today?s rich high-resolution systems. And what started as a simple ?window? to compliment the product name became a flying or waving flag.

But if you look back to the origins of the logo you see that it really was meant to be a window. "Windows" really is a beautiful metaphor for computing and with the new logo we wanted to celebrate the idea of a window, in perspective. Microsoft and Windows are all about putting technology in people's hands to empower them to find their own perspectives. And that is what the new logo was meant to be. We did less of a re-design and more to return it to its original meaning and bringing Windows back to its roots ? reimagining the Windows logo as just that ? a window.

5315.winlogo_2D00_history3_5F00_thumb_5F00_20CF425A.jpg

Let?s look back at a few of the versions along the way.

Windows 1.0

Few remember the original Windows logo, yet we found it both refreshing and inspiring in relation to the work we have been doing on the Metro style design visuals. Using simple lines and clear straight forward concept, this logo reminded us of what a great and evocative name we have with ?windows?.

6318.2_5F00_thumb_5F00_0B0559FD.png

Windows 3.1

For many of us this was the image in our mind when we think of past Windows logos. The now classic window shape and the introduction of the four colors were hallmarks of the Windows brand for many years to come. The introduction of the ?waving effect? gives the logo a sense of motion. This logo would be the basis of the Windows versions throughout the 1990s.

4377.3_5F00_thumb_5F00_51161710.png

Windows XP

The next major incarnation of the logo came with the release of Windows XP. What has come to be known as the ?Windows flag? is a cleaner more sophisticated mark than its predecessors. The version that populated the lower left hand corner of Windows PCs next to the word ?Start? also gained a sense of materiality (plastic?) and a 3D effect from the rich gradients and shadows.

5775.4_5F00_thumb_5F00_6939816B.jpg

Windows Vista

The Windows Vista release marked the beginning of the AERO design aesthetic in Windows with a key component of the interface being the ?AERO glass? effect. Replacing the green Start button was the round glass-like button with a now flattened version of the ?flag? from Windows XP. Internally, this icon became known as the ?pearl?. You can see the intricate lighting effects of the faux glass. In many ways signaling just how powerful of a rendering engine the PC had become. This version of the logo was largely unchanged for Windows 7.

1018.5_5F00_thumb_5F00_080FF54A.png

Windows 8

With Windows 8, we approached the logo redesign with a few key goals on mind.

1. We wanted the new logo to be both modern and classic by echoing the International Typographic Style (or Swiss design) that has been a great influence on our Metro style design philosophy. Using bold flat colors and clean lines and shapes, the new logo has the characteristics of way-finding design systems seen in airports and subways.

2. It was important that the new logo carries our Metro principle of being ?Authentically Digital?. By that, we mean it does not try to emulate faux-industrial design characteristics such as materiality (glass, wood, plastic, etc.). It has motion ? aligning with the fast and fluid style you?ll find throughout Windows 8.

3. Our final goal was for the new logo to be humble, yet confident. Welcoming you in with a slight tilt in perspective and when you change your color, the logo changes to reflect you. It is a ?Personal? Computer after all.

0363.Win8Logo_5F00_01_5F00_thumb_5F00_3BD7EB9B.jpg

We hope you enjoy our new logo.

Sam Moreau

Principal Director of User Experience for Windows

Source: The Windows Blog

Grand Master

PGHammer

Posted
Posted

Just saw it on twitter :/

Replied: @windowsblog I saw this a couple of days ago :/ It looked so bad I thought it was fake... I really hope it grows on me..

And hearing it explained like that, I found myself....agreeing with Pentagram, and wondering just how muddleheaded traditionalism and backlinking to the past has gotten - in and out of technology.

Until now, the central part of the Windows logo has remained "unchanged" since XP, to be honest. Given how much the rest of the product had changed (not even factoring in the changes coming in Windows 8 itself), it comes down to backlinking.

However, expect massive howls of protest.

Grand Master

+Ryster Subscriber²

Posted
  • Subscriber²
Posted

I like the new logo, it's clean and bold, and reflects the new design of the OS. That said, like lcg above, I like it no more than the current one.

In response to DigitalSnow, I have a feeling the colour of the logo and text is not fixed, and can be variable depending on where it's used. To reflect different editions perhaps. That's the beauty of a flat logo like this. It can also operate in negative (so white logo and text) on a coloured background.

Well? it does look like a real window. And it also looks like tiles. And they have simplified it the Web 2.0 way.

This.

Grand Master

djdanster

Posted
Posted

Seriously who are these mugs at the Windows Design team? They SUCK BIG TIME!

The previous colours look like effort was actually put into creating the logo, this however looks like very little work was committed!

Maybe it would look a bit better if it has multicoloured tiles...

Grand Master

Lee G. Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

I like the new logo, it's clean and bold, and reflects the new design of the OS.

In response to DigitalSnow, I have a feeling the colour of the logo and text is not fixed, and can be variable depending on where it's used. To reflect different editions perhaps. That's the beauty of a flat logo like this. It can also operate in negative (so white logo and text) on a coloured background.

I agree, and yes, the new logo does change colour:

3. Our final goal was for the new logo to be humble, yet confident. Welcoming you in with a slight tilt in perspective and when you change your color, the logo changes to reflect you. It is a ?Personal? Computer after all.
Grand Master

+Ryster Subscriber²

Posted
  • Subscriber²
Posted

Seriously who are these mugs at the Windows Design team? They SUCK BIG TIME!

The previous colours look like effort was actually put into creating the logo, this however looks like very little work was committed!

Maybe it would look a bit better if it has multicoloured tiles...

The "Windows Design Team" had nothing to do with the logo. Read the article. It was designed by a third party agency. That said though, I hope they didn't pay them too much just to arrange 4 squares at a slight angle :)

Grand Master

Reacon

Posted
Posted

I maintain an open mind... but this is just way too monochrome. The multicoloured scheme subtly represented the versatility of Winders, and the flag sort of stated it was the flagship product. I agree with their idea to make the logo a "window" instead, but it really doesn't help much when you overwrite all of the defining visual elements of a household logo.

This topic is now closed to further replies.
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Posts

    • Meta is reusing old DDR4 RAM in its servers instead of buying new hardware

      By sava700 · Posted

      The fact that memory in general is so high I have to take a loan out to build a computer now is just beyond stupid. Who's really to blame here? Low supply or high demand?
    • Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5

      By Copernic · Posted

      Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 by Razvan Serea Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) is a utility for completely removing AMD/NVIDIA/INTEL graphics drivers and related packages from your system, attempting to eliminate all leftovers (including registry entries, folders and files, driver store). Though AMD/NVIDIA/INTEL drivers can usually be removed via the Windows Control Panel, this uninstaller tool was created for situations where standard uninstall fails, or when you need to fully remove NVIDIA or ATI graphics card drivers. After using this driver cleaner, your system will behave as though it’s the first time you’re installing a new driver—similar to a fresh Windows installation. As with all such tools, we recommend creating a restore point beforehand, allowing you to undo changes if issues arise. If you're having trouble installing an older or newer driver, try it—there are reports that it resolves such problems. Recommended usage: The tool can be used in Normal mode but for absolute stability when using DDU, Safemode is always the best. Make a backup or a system restore (but it should normally be pretty safe). It is best to exclude the DDU folder completely from any security software to avoid issues. You do NOT need to uninstall the driver prior using DDU. Requirements: .NET Framework 4.8 Compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11 (32-bit or 64-bit) Note: Using on Insider Preview builds is at your own risk. Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 changelog: Added 'Reset to recommended' button for the Options. General fixes and improvements. Download: Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 | 1.7 MB (Freeware) Download: DDU Portable | 1.2 MB Links: Display Driver Uninstaller Home Page | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview

      By Copernic · Posted

      WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview by Razvan Serea WACUP (WinAmp Community Update Project) is a modern, enhanced version of the classic Winamp music player, designed for better stability, performance, and compatibility. Built for Windows, WACUP retains the familiar Winamp interface while adding 64-bit support, bug fixes, and new features like improved audio format support, customizable skins, and optimized playlist management. Unlike bloated alternatives, WACUP focuses on lightweight performance and regular updates, making it the best choice for fans of the classic Winamp experience. Basically, if you miss the good old days of Winamp and want a modern upgrade that doesn’t mess things up, WACUP is for you! WACUP key features: Classic Winamp Feel – Keeps the familiar interface and functionality. Bug Fixes & Stability – Fixes old Winamp issues and improves performance. 64-Bit Support – Works better on modern systems. More Formats & Plugins – Supports additional audio formats and third-party plugins. Customizable UI – Skins and tweaks for a personalized look. Better Library Management – Improved playlists, media organization, and search. No Bloat – Focuses on performance without unnecessary extras. Regular Updates – Community-driven development with new features and fixes. WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview changelog: Fixed a deadlock seen from the recent crash reports when doing some of the drag + drop actions within the media library window Fixed a loading crash seen related to a problem with some of the artwork cache image files being restored which should now be better handled allowing for the bad image to be removed without it failing Fixed a deadlock seen from the recent crash reports when the internal metadata cache clearing is triggered which could block the main ui thread for too long with this now being moved to a background thread Fixed some performance issues with some of the methods related to determining artwork support which mainly affected the local library import / refresh (this is still slower for some compared to other players because there's more data & artwork aspects being checked for which means doing more processing on a single file despite the best of attempts to reduce duplicate / heavy processing where possible) Fixed a crash with the JTFE based missing files hotkey which no one seems to have used for an age for this to appear (maybe it's time to seriously consider stripping out features that aren't being used) Fixed how some of the file types which use extra information to reference their sub-songs is handled which was preventing some from being correctly resolved back to their base file (noticed fixing above) Fixed an issue with the handling of files with underscores in their filepath which wasn't being correctly handled causing some of the filename to be lost when shown as the title if title reading is delayed Fixed a few things that might be behind NotSoDirect not being stable for some setups though am still not certain that the changes done for this are going to fully resolve the problem from the crash reports Fixed the OS toast handling when there's no prior shortcut in the OS start menu to now create the shortcut (needed to allow the yes/no buttons for the new build / post-release toast) to be done as a hidden one so it's less likely to cause annoyance for those not wanting to see it whilst still allowing this less than ideal OS api implementation requirement to be met to avoid toasts without the needed buttons Fixed a regression when moving from taglib1 to taglib2 which broke some of the handling in place to allow for external programs to still access files when wacup has a held open cached instance of the file Everything else Updated cppwinrt (gen_win10shell.dll) to 3.0.260520.1 (26 May 2026) Updated libcurl (libcurl.dll) to 8.2.1 (24 Jun 2026) Updated Monkey's Audio (in_ape.dll) to 13.15 (28 Jun 2026) Updated mpg123 (mpg123.dll) to 1.33.6 (6 Jun 2026) Updated OpenSSL (libcurl.dll) to 3.5.7 (9 Jun 2026) Updated pugixml to 1.16 (16 Jun 2026) Updated taglib (tag2.dll) to 2.3.0 (11 May 2026) Updated vgmstream (in_vgmstream.dll) to the latest Git commit from 28 Jun 2026 Download: WACUP 64-bit | 9.6 MB (Freeware) Download: WACUP 32-bit View: WACUP Website | Screenshots Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • Dbrand thought they could get away with this Steam Machine case, Valve disagreed

      By Doli · Posted

      "over a thousand engineering hours" and started selling it but could not take a couple of minuets to send an AI email to ask permission. What an expensive lesson.
    • Can't access the forum on mobile

      By WITHOUT-ME · Posted

      just tested it yesterday, a simple page with autoloading ADS takes 60mb....just 1 page for 60 megabytes.   poor people with a limited internet never will visit neolose

  • Recent Achievements

    • Week One Done
      Collagen Project earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • Reacting Well
      Wakeen1966 earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Rookie
      Almohandis went up a rank
      Rookie
    • Apprentice
      jahara21 went up a rank
      Apprentice
    • Reacting Well
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Reacting Well

  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      526
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      265
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      146
    4. 4
      Steven P.
      99
    5. 5
      macoman
      55
    Show More

  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!