In a significant move for computer history enthusiasts, Microsoft, alongside IBM, has released the source code for MS-DOS 4.0 under an MIT license. This decision grants public access to the codebase that powered countless early personal computers. There’s also somewhat fascinating content behind the 4.0 versions of DOS, as Microsoft partnered with IBM for portions of the code but also created a branch of DOS called Multitasking DOS that did not see a wide release.

Historical Significance

MS-DOS, or Microsoft Disk Operating System, is a foundational piece of software that powered early personal computers. It was the main operating system for IBM PC compatible personal computers during the 1980s and the early 1990s. The release of MS-DOS 4.0’s source code under the MIT license marks a significant moment, as it allows the public to access and study a crucial part of computing history.

A Step Forward in Transparency and Preservation

Microsoft’s action aligns with their growing commitment to open-source software and historical preservation. By making the source code available, they empower developers, researchers, and hobbyists to:

• Explore the inner workings of this influential operating system, written in 8686 assembly language over four decades ago.
• Gain insights into the ingenuity of early software development.
• Potentially build upon the codebase for educational or creative purposes.

Exploring the Code Today

While MS-DOS itself isn’t actively used in modern computing, the open-sourced code offers a valuable resource. Those interested can delve into the code using emulator software like PCem or 86box to virtually experience this piece of computing history.

You can explore the complete press release by Microsoft’s VP of of Developer community Scott Hanselman and the Head of Open Source Program Office Jeff Wilcox here.

This development marks a significant moment for software preservation and opens doors for further exploration of our digital past.

Simply put, Windows Copilot is an AI assistant to Windows 11. Windows Copilot will be integrated directly into Windows 11 and available to open and use from the taskbar across all apps and programs. Once open, the Windows Copilot side bar stays consistent across your apps, programs, and windows, always available to act as your personal assistant. It makes every user a power user, helping you take action, customize your settings, and seamlessly connect across your favorite apps.

Microsoft Build 2023, the company’s annual developer conference is officially underway, and a product that is getting extra special attention at the event is AI assistant.

For those who remember the Windows 10 assistant, Cortana, it won’t directly replace the search bar on the Windows 11 taskbar and is a separate Copilot button alongside it instead, much like how Cortana had its own dedicated space on the taskbar.

With Bing and ChatGPT plugins in Windows Copilot, people will not only have access to augmented AI capabilities and experiences, but the developers too will have new ways to reach and innovate for their customers.

Microsoft says, “Windows is the first PC platform to provide centralized AI assistance for customers. Together, with Bing Chat and first- and third-party plugins, you can focus on bringing your ideas to life, completing complex projects and collaborating instead of spending energy finding, launching and working across multiple applications.”