Microsoft gets a new logo

Microsoft made a monumental announcement this morning. No, it's not a revamped Windows 8, no the next Xbox isn't just around the corner. Microsoft has a new logo and it's inspiration is clearly Metro. The design language, not a shortening of another word.

This is the first time Microsoft has updated its look in twenty five years and it's done so in order to coincide with the impending release of Windows 8, Windows Phone 8, new Xbox services and the new version of Microsoft's Office software. Describing the company as going through “a new era”, general manager of brand strategy at Microsoft Jeff Hansen, said on the official blog that the logo represented a new beginning for the company.

Using elements similar to the Windows logo in its design, the new one features a flat paned, square window made up of four sections, each coloured a primary colour – plus green. It sits next to the word Microsoft, this time written in the Segoe typeface.

The links with Microsoft's upcoming Metro interface are obvious, but it is interesting to note that out of all the logos shown off in the debut trailer – Office, Windows 8 and Xbox – the new Microsoft one, is the only one that doesn't allude to having a third dimension. Office and Windows 8 are both slanted, while Xbox spins around to reveal a sphere shape when transitioning. The Microsoft pane however remains flat and colourful. [yframe url='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzkZWvAJUr0′]

KitGuru Says: What do you guys think of the new Microsoft logo? Some are suggesting it's pretty underwhelming, but I like it. It's minimalist and bright, with quite a relaxed feel to it. Still, who wouldn't love to know how much Microsoft spent on consulting for its creation?

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