Challenge your tech history knowledge with this quiz on the initial launch years of influential operating systems. Each question spotlights a landmark OS—can you pick the correct release year?
When was the widely known desktop operating system Windows 95 released to the public for the first time?
Explanation: Windows 95 was released in August 1995 featuring a new user interface and Start menu. 1992 is too early and aligns more with Windows 3.1, while 1998 corresponds to the later Windows 98 release. 2000 is for Windows 2000, not Windows 95.
What year did the first version of macOS X, which introduced a new foundation for Mac computers, officially launch?
Explanation: macOS X launched in 2001, marking a significant leap in the Mac operating system's development. 1997 predated its foundation, while 2003 and 2005 refer to subsequent updates and versions, not the initial release.
In what year was the first commercial version of the Android operating system made available on a mobile device?
Explanation: Android's debut on a commercial phone was in 2008. 2007 was when the OS was announced, not released. Versions in 2009 and 2010 were later upgrades, not the original public launch.
When was Ubuntu, the popular Linux-based desktop and server operating system, publicly released in its first stable version?
Explanation: Ubuntu's first stable release appeared in 2004, providing a new user-friendly Linux option. 2002 would be too early and 2006 or 2008 apply to later releases and versions, not the original.
Which year saw the initial commercial release of UNIX, a system that inspired many modern OS designs?
Explanation: UNIX first shipped commercially in 1971, becoming widely known in academic and enterprise circles. 1969 is when development began, while 1975 and 1981 refer to notable later UNIX milestones, not the first commercial release.