Why Midori was so exciting
In a fascinating chapter of its history, Microsoft once embarked on an ambitious journey to create an operating system that would stand independently from its iconic Windows platform. This endeavor, known as “Midori,” emerged in 2008 as a bold attempt to rewrite the rules of operating systems by discarding all existing Windows code and starting anew.
Midori was not merely a technical exercise; it represented a vision for a future where Microsoft could innovate without the constraints of legacy systems. The project promised a suite of modern features, tools, and even a new web browser, all designed to be compatible with existing Windows applications. Such aspirations were ambitious, reflecting a desire to leap into a new era of computing.
The allure of Midori lay in its potential to liberate Microsoft from the “legacy spaghetti” that had accumulated over decades of Windows development. During a presentation in 2013, Microsoft expressed optimism about Midori’s innovative ideas and approaches, showcasing a commitment to rethinking the user experience.
Insights from Joe Duffy, a key figure in the Midori project, have recently resurfaced in a series of videos shared on social media. Duffy’s reflections provide a glimpse into the creative energy that surrounded the initiative, underscoring the excitement that permeated the development phase.
What happened to Midori?
Despite the initial enthusiasm, Midori’s journey was cut short in 2015 when Microsoft officially abandoned the project. The reasons behind this decision remain somewhat opaque, though it is likely that internal challenges and skepticism played significant roles. Critics questioned the wisdom of discarding a well-functioning kernel in favor of an entirely new system, especially given Microsoft’s historical focus on the longevity and adaptability of Windows.
After the cancellation of Midori, Microsoft integrated some of its innovative concepts into the existing Windows framework. However, the company maintained a level of secrecy surrounding the project, perhaps to avoid public scrutiny or to protect the reputation of Windows as the cornerstone of its ecosystem.
Ultimately, while Midori may have been left behind, its legacy continues to echo within the corridors of Microsoft, reminding us of a time when the company dared to dream of a world beyond Windows.
Author: Laura Pippig, Staff Writer, PC-WELT
