Microsoft revives Windows XP background as an ugly Christmas sweater

If you feel nostalgic for the days of Windows XP, Microsoft has something for you. The company released a limited edition Christmas sweater with the iconic Bliss wallpaper that was the default background of the operating system.

The sweater is part of Microsoft's annual tradition of creating ugly Christmas sweaters inspired by its products. Previous editions have included sweaters based on MS Paint, Windows 95, and Microsoft Teams. The sweaters are not available for sale, but are given away to fans and influencers through contests and giveaways on social media.

The Windows XP sweater is a tribute to one of the most popular and influential versions of Windows, which was released in 2001 and continued until 2014. The Bliss wallpaper, depicting a green hill and a blue sky with clouds, was Photographed by Charles O. 'Rear in 1996 in Sonoma County, California. The image became one of the most viewed photographs in history, as it was viewed by hundreds of millions of Windows XP users around the world.

Microsoft said the sweater is meant to celebrate the "legacy, history, and community" of Windows XP and bring some "bliss" to the holiday season. The sweater features the Windows XP logo on the front and a pixelated version of the Bliss wallpaper on the back and sleeves. It also has a tagline that says "Established in 2001" and a QR code that leads to a web page with more information about the sweater and Windows XP.

The sweater has received mixed reactions from fans and critics, with some praising it as a fun and nostalgic gesture, and others calling it a vulgar and dated reminder of a bygone era. Some have also pointed out that the sweater may not be very eco-friendly, as it is made of acrylic, a synthetic material that is derived from fossil fuels and does not biodegrade easily.

Whether you love it or hate it, the Windows XP Sweater is a rare and collectible item that showcases the history and culture of Microsoft. If you want to get one, you'll have to follow Microsoft's social media accounts and look for opportunities to win one. Alternatively, you can try creating your own version using a custom sweater service or some DIY skills. Either way, you're sure to stand out from the crowd in this unique and eye-catching piece of clothing.

If you're feeling nostalgic for the days of Windows XP, you might want to check out Microsoft's latest holiday offering: a sweater that pays homage to the operating system's iconic default wallpaper.

The sweater features a knitted version of the "Bliss" image, showing a serene landscape of green hills, blue sky and white clouds. The sweater also has the Windows XP logo on the chest and sleeves, and a tag that says "Established 2001."

The sweater is part of Microsoft's annual tradition of creating ugly Christmas sweaters inspired by the company's retro products. Last year they made a sweater featuring Clippy, Microsoft Office's annoying clip assistant. This year they decided to celebrate Windows XP, which was released in October 2001 and became one of the most popular and used operating systems in history.

The sweater is available for $69,99 on the Microsoft Store website, but hurry if you want to get one, because they're selling out fast. Whether you want to wear it as a joke or as a tribute to your favorite operating system, this sweater is sure to make you stand out from the crowd this holiday season.