Microsoft has made headlines by officially releasing the source code for its historic 6502 BASIC programming language under an open-source license. This is a significant move for both tech enthusiasts and small business owners looking to tap into retro computing for educational purposes or software development.

For decades, bits and pieces of Microsoft’s 6502 BASIC code have been floating around on various retro computing websites and preserved in museums. This new release represents a formal recognition of the code’s importance in computing history and offers fresh opportunities for small businesses to innovate.

The creation of Microsoft BASIC in 1975 marked the company’s first product, crafted by Bill Gates and Paul Allen for the Altair 8800. In just a year, they adapted it for the MOS 6502 CPU, which powered iconic systems like the Commodore 64 and the Apple II. This programming language became a cornerstone for education, helping new generations of programmers to learn coding by writing simple commands like:

10 PRINT “HELLO”
20 GOTO 10

The newly released code, labeled “BASIC M6502 8K VER 1.1,” is not merely a nostalgia trip; it carries with it educational and business implications. As the retro computing scene gains traction, small businesses can explore various practical applications, such as:

Educational Workshops: Small tech firms could organize coding workshops using BASIC to engage students and young programmers. This approachable language serves as a fantastic entry point for those new to programming.
Software Development: Startups focusing on hardware or IoT projects can study the workings of older systems and offer fresh adaptations. The simplicity of the 6502 CPU combined with BASIC can inspire innovative product solutions.
Community Engagement: Small businesses can build community around retro tech and programming. By creating user groups or events centered on BASIC, they foster a spirit of collaboration while also gaining visibility.

The open-source nature of this release is another important consideration for small business owners. Developers can now freely explore, modify, and share the code, enabling a collaborative atmosphere that has the potential to invigorate the software community.

However, there are challenges to consider. While there’s a certain allure to retro computing, small business owners may face hurdles like:

Learning Curve: Although BASIC is easier to grasp than many modern languages, the retro context could intimidate those unfamiliar with its syntax or the ecosystems of older systems.
Limited Market: The demand for new products based on retro technology might be niche. Small businesses should validate their market before diving into projects fueled by nostalgia.
Technical Support: Finding resources or support can be difficult when working with outdated technology. Entrepreneurs may need to invest time and effort into building community knowledge or sourcing expertise.

Microsoft’s open-source release of 6502 BASIC speaks volumes about the importance of preserving computing history while embracing modern collaboration. According to Scott Hanselman, Microsoft’s Vice President of Developer Community, “For the first time, this influential 6502 version is truly yours to explore, modify, and share.”

This initiative represents more than just a nostalgic look back; it provides small businesses with unique avenues to educate, innovate, and engage with communities. As interest in retro computing continues to grow, the time is ripe for small businesses to explore what this historic programming language can offer.

For more details, you can read the original announcement at Microsoft Open Source.

Image via Envato




More in: Microsoft News