Windows XP’s iconic bliss wallpaper celebrates its 20th anniversary

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Published onJune 24, 2016

published onJune 24, 2016

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Microsoft’s official Windows Twitter handle sent out a tweet letting everyone know that today is the 20th anniversary of the iconic “bliss” wallpaper seen in Windows XP. The photo was taken by National Geographic photographer Charles O’Rear while on his way to see his girlfriend back in 1996. Many believe the photo was altered in some way, perhaps photoshopped a little bit, but O’Rear claims the photowas never alteredor enhanced in any way.

O’Rear was on the road in St. Helena, California (located in the Napa Valley) when he spotted the hill. “There it was! My God, the grass is perfect! It’s green! The sun is out; there’s some clouds,” O’Rear explained. He pulled over and took the shot using his camera and the rest was history.

Microsoft eventually digitized the version of the photo and licensed it from O’Rear — making it the most popular Windows wallpaper ever. The software company called the photo “bliss” and made it a key part of the Windows XP campaign.

From@Timehoptoday: In 1996, Charles O’Rear took a photo that became the most popular Windows wallpaper ever.#FBFpic.twitter.com/Nnkqj6YJqo

— Windows (@Windows)June 24, 2016

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).

For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.

Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.

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Windows XP’s iconic bliss wallpaper celebrates its 20th anniversary