Twenty Thousand Hertz27 Apr 2022

Ta-da! The history of Windows’ classic startup sounds

Over the years, Microsoft has made at least ten iconic startup sounds for Windows—from the triumphant “Ta-da!” of Windows 3.1, to the ambient chime that Brian Eno crafted for Windows 95, to the orchestral sweep of Windows XP. In this episode, we explore the creation of the classic Windows startup sounds through Windows 7, and what each one says about Microsoft’s evolving technology. Featuring former Microsoft Lead UI Designer Jensen Harris and Sound Designer Matthew Bennett.

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Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/tadaitswindows

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