Name: Rolle, Shannel Theresa J.

Course&Year: BSRT1
Subject: Living in the IT Era

Microsoft Windows Versions

Windows 1.0: This was the earliest version of Windows, released in 1985. It introduced a
graphical user interface (GUI) that allowed users to interact with programs using Windows
instead of command lines, along with basic applications like Paint and Notepad.
Windows 2.0: Released in 1987, Windows 2.0 introduced overlapping and resizable application
windows, desktop icons, keyboard shortcuts, support for 16-color VGA graphics, and Microsoft
Word and Excel.
Windows 3.0: Released in 1990, it introduces a new graphical user interface (GUI) that
represents applications as clickable icons rather than the list of file names in its predecessors.
Later updates expand capabilities, such as multimedia support for sound recording and
playback and support for CD-ROMs (Compact disc read-only memory).
Windows 3.1: Established in 1992, it added support for TrueType fonts and multimedia
capabilities.
Windows 95: It was introduced in 1995, and it revolutionized the user experience with the
introduction of the Start menu, taskbar, and plug-and-play hardware support, solidifying
Microsoft’s dominance in the market.

Windows 98: Launched in 1998, this version improved USB support and integrated Internet
Explorer into the desktop environment for seamless web access and better hardware
compatibility.

Windows ME (Millennium Edition): An operating system that was released in 2000, it focused
on home users with multimedia features but was criticized for stability issues.

Windows 2000: Released in 2000, is an NT-based operating system by Microsoft that

succeeded Windows NT 4.0, targeting business users with features like Active Directory and
multimedia support, while ultimately being replaced by Windows XP.

Windows XP: Released in 2001, it combined the best of the consumer and professional lines
with a user-friendly interface.
Windows Vista: a major release of Microsoft Windows, was launched in 2007, succeeding
Windows XP after a lengthy development period that began in 2001 and aimed to enhance user
experience with new features while addressing prior system limitations.

Windows 7: Developed by Microsoft and released in 2009, is an NT-based operating system

intended to address the shortcomings of Windows Vista, featuring improved performance on
older hardware and enhancements to the Aero user interface.

Windows 8: An operating system developed by Microsoft and released in 2012, succeeded

Windows 7 with a shifted focus towards touch interfaces with a new Start screen and introduced
live tiles, although it received mixed reviews from traditional desktop users

Windows 8.1: is an operating system by Microsoft released in 2013, it is a free upgrade for all
Windows 8 users and addressed criticisms of Windows 8 by reintroducing the Start button and
enhancing usability with improvements to search and multitasking features.

Windows 10: released in 2015, succeeded Windows 8.1 and introduced a new "Windows as a
service" model with regular feature updates, while being the last version to support 32-bit
systems and set to reach the end of support on October 14, 2025.

Windows 11: Released in 2021, this version revamped the user interface with centered taskbar
icons, introduced Snap Layouts for better window management, improved support for Android
apps through the Microsoft Store, and implemented stricter hardware requirements for
enhanced security.

Linux Versions

Linux Kernel 1.0: It was released in 1994, and it was the first stable release of the Linux kernel
that laid the foundation for future distributions by providing basic functionalities needed for an
operating system.
Debian GNU/Linux: Established in 1996 it aimed at stability and extensive package
management through its APT system, becoming one of the most influential Linux distributions.
Red Hat Linux: This version was launched in 1995 and it focused on enterprise solutions; later
rebranded as Red Hat Enterprise Linux to cater to business needs specifically in server
environments.
Ubuntu: Launched in 2004 and based on Debian, it aimed at providing an easy-to-use desktop
experience while promoting open-source software availability to general users.
Fedora Core: Established in 2006, it is a community-driven project that serves as a testing
ground for new technologies before they are integrated into Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
Arch Linux: Released in 2002, it is known for its simplicity and customization options through a
rolling release model that appeals to advanced users seeking control over their system
configurations.

MacOS Versions
Mac OS X Cheetah (10.0): Launched in 2001, The first version of Mac OS X introduced a
modern Unix-based architecture along with an Aqua graphical user interface that emphasized
aesthetics and usability.
Mac OS X Panther (10.3): Established in 2003, Enhanced performance with new features like
Exposé for window management and improved Finder functionality for better file organization.
Mac OS X Tiger (10.4): This version was established in 2005, and introduced Spotlight search
functionality along with Dashboard widgets that provided quick access to information at a
glance.
Mac OS X Leopard (10.5): Released in 2007, it Brought over 300 new features including Time
Machine backup functionality and enhancements to iChat and Mail applications.
Mac OS X Snow Leopard (10.6): Launched in 2009, and focused on performance
improvements rather than new features while refining existing applications for better efficiency.
OS X Lion (10.7): Released in 2011, Integrated features from iOS such as full-screen apps and
Mission Control for streamlined multitasking experiences on desktops.
OS X Mountain Lion (10.8): Launched in 2012, Enhanced integration with iCloud services
while introducing a Notifications Center to keep users updated in real-time across applications.
OS X Mavericks (10.9): This version was published in 2013, it focused on power efficiency
improvements alongside enhancements in Finder and multi-display support for better
productivity workflows.
OS X Yosemite (10.10): Released in 2014 Revamped the user interface to align more closely
with iOS aesthetics while introducing Continuity features that allowed seamless transitions
between devices.
MacOS Sierra (10.12): Established in 2016, this version introduced Siri integration into macOS
along with Apple Pay support in Safari for easier online transactions.
MacOS High Sierra (10.13): Released in 2017, it enhanced file system capabilities through
APFS while improving graphics performance with Metal technology optimizations.
MacOS Mojave (10.14): Established in 2018, This version brought Dark Mode along with the
desktop Stacks feature to help organize files visually on the desktop effectively.
MacOS Catalina (10.15): Launched in 2019, Split iTunes into separate apps—Music, Podcasts,
and TV—while enhancing security features through increased app permissions management.
MacOS Big Sur (11.0): Released in 2020, This version marked a significant design overhaul
aligning macOS aesthetics closer to iOS while introducing Control Center functionality similar to
iPhone/iPad experiences.
MacOS Monterey (12.0): Released in 2021, Enhanced collaboration tools through SharePlay
while introducing Universal Control allowing seamless use across Mac and iPad devices
simultaneously.
Android Versions
Android 1.0: Released in 2008, the initial release featured basic functionalities including a web
browser, camera support, and access to the Android Market.
Android 1.5 (Cupcake): Released in 2009, this version introduced an on-screen keyboard and
third-party app widgets, enhancing user interaction.
Android 2.0 (Eclair): This version was released in 2009 and added features like Google Maps
navigation and improved camera capabilities with multiple account support.
Android 2.2 (Froyo): Released in 2010, enhanced performance with speed improvements and
introduced tethering and USB support.
Android 3.0 (Honeycomb): Established in 2011, Designed specifically for tablets, it introduced
a new user interface with a focus on larger screens and multitasking.
Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich): Launched in 2011 Unified phone and tablet interfaces
while introducing features like facial recognition unlock and a redesigned notifications system.
Android 4.1-4.3 (Jelly Bean): Established in 2012, Improved performance with Project Butter
for smoother UI transitions and enhanced accessibility features.
Android 4.4 (KitKat): Released in 2013, Optimized for devices with lower RAM, introduced
"OK Google" support, and revamped the user interface.
Android 5.0 (Lollipop): Released in 2014, Introduced Material Design for a cohesive visual
experience along with improved notifications and battery management.
Android 6.0 (Marshmallow): Released in 2015, Brought features like Doze mode for battery
saving and improved app permissions for better user control.
Android 7.0-7.1 (Nougat): Released in 2016, Introduced split-screen multitasking and bundled
notifications for enhanced usability.
Android 8.0-8.1 (Oreo): Released in 2017, Added picture-in-picture mode and notification
channels for better management of alerts.
Android 9 (Pie): Established in 2018, this version harnessed AI to make the device smarter
with gesture-based navigation and adaptive battery features.
Android 10: Released in 2019 Brought a system-wide dark mode and enhanced privacy
controls without a dessert name for the first time.
Android 11: Released in 2020, Focused on conversations with dedicated notification sections
and improved media controls for better user experience.
Android 12: Launched in 2021Introduced Material You design language allowing extensive
customization of themes based on user preferences.
Android 13: Released in 2022, Enhanced personalization options with themed app icons and
improved privacy features for notifications.
Android 14: This version was released in 2023, and it continued to build on customization
features while improving system performance and security measures.
Android 15: Established in 2024, this version further refined user interface elements while
enhancing security protocols across the operating system.
References:

Admin. (2022, December 23). Microsoft Windows - Introduction, Versions, History

& Development. BYJUS. [Link]

Android Releases. (n.d.-a). Android Developers.

[Link]
Garg, A. (2024, March 12). Android versions list – from Version 1.0 to Android 15.

Internshala Trainings Blog. [Link]

Leheida, T. (2024, July 4). All macOS versions from 2001 to 2024. Setapp.

[Link]

Stackscale. (2024a, October 22). 31 popular Linux distributions and OS [List].

Stackscale. [Link]