Microsoft 6502 BASIC: A Historic Software Milestone

Microsoft has officially open-sourced its 6502 BASIC, a historic programming language first developed in 1976. Microsoft 6502 BASIC ran on the 6502 CPU, powering iconic devices like the Apple II, Commodore 8-bit computers, Atari 2600, and Nintendo Entertainment System. This release allows coding enthusiasts, preservationists, and hobbyists to explore the roots of early programming, understand Microsoft’s pioneering work in software licensing, and relive the experience of typing basic commands like 10 PRINT "HELLO" and 20 GOTO 10.

The Origins of Microsoft 6502 BASIC

The story of Microsoft 6502 BASIC begins with Bill Gates and Ric Weiland, who adapted the language for the 6502 processor in 1976. Its simplicity and accessibility made it an essential tool for early home computing. By 1977, Commodore licensed Microsoft BASIC for just $25,000, bringing it to the PET, VIC-20, and later the Commodore 64. This small investment helped standardize programming language implementations and influenced the growth of software development in the early personal computing era.

Why Microsoft Open-Sourced 6502 BASIC

After decades of unofficial copies circulating online, Microsoft decided to release the 6502 BASIC code under an open-source license. The move not only preserves a key piece of computing history but also provides educational value for developers and retro computing enthusiasts. By studying the original source code, hobbyists can recreate old software environments, experiment with FPGA-based systems, and gain insight into how foundational software like Microsoft BASIC shaped modern computing.

The Legacy and Future of 6502 BASIC

Microsoft 6502 BASIC’s release highlights the enduring legacy of early programming. Nearly 50 years later, enthusiasts continue to explore the MOS 6502 CPU, use emulators, and participate in preservation projects. This open-source release ensures that Microsoft’s early innovations remain accessible for learning, experimentation, and inspiration. For anyone interested in the history of computing, Microsoft 6502 BASIC offers a unique window into the evolution of programming and software development.