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5 Apr 2025

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Microsoft’s 50th anniversary Windows wallpapers are actually pretty great
Microsoft is celebrating its 50th anniversary this week, and it’s offering some new Windows wallpapers to mark the occasion. Over on Microsoft’s Windows blog, Microsoft has published a basket of different wallpapers for Windows PCs, which you can download here for free. They’re actually cooler than you think! Microsoft’s designers have played with the concept of “50” in a number of different ways: with the generic Microsoft logo, for example, or with tulips. Each wallpaper is available in a 4K option for modern displays, with widescreen versions as well. There’s even versions specifically designed for dark mode, adding a little bit of mystery to the whole affair. (This is actually Microsoft’s second attempt at providing free wallpapers for its 50th anniversary. Our sister publication PCWelt didn’t exactly love Microsoft’s first try.) My favorite is actually the “50” motif done up in cascading Solitaire cards, reminiscent of the victory celebration that you receive for completing the game. Mahjong is there — but no Minecraft? Who knows — maybe that will be added later. The Windows entry is cute, too. Microsoft If you’re a gamer, don’t forget the Xbox dynamic background, too. Microsoft will celebrate its 50th anniversary on its Redmond, Wash. campus on Friday, April 4, with company executives scheduled to speak at an outdoors event. We’ll be there. Will Copilot Search be one of the announcements? While we’ll have more coverage as it develops, check out how Bill Gates is marking the milestone by releasing the source code that got Microsoft on its way, and my favorite tech demo ever — again at Microsoft.

Americans react to the president's trade policy
Five Americans share their view on the sweeping import taxes the president has announced.

The Grand National jockey who's allergic to horses
Jockey Sean Bowen targets the Grand National after riding his 1,000th winner despite being allergic to horses.

White House fires National Security Agency chief
Far-right activist Laura Loomer, who met with Trump on Wednesday, said Gen Timothy Haugh was fired because he was "disloyal".

Grand National pinstickers' guide to runners
Runners, riders, trainers and form - all the key details you need to know for Saturday's big race at Aintree.

Sutton's predictions v singer-songwriter Mychelle
BBC Sport football expert Chris Sutton takes on singer-songwriter Mychelle with his predictions for this weekend's Premier League fixtures.

Everton condemn death threats towards Tarkowski
Everton condemn death threats made towards James Tarkowski and his family following the defender's tackle in Wednesday's Merseyside derby at Anfield.

De Bruyne to leave Manchester City at end of season
Kevin de Bruyne accounces he will leave Manchester City when his contract expires at the end of the season.

TV's Doctor Oz confirmed to oversee healthcare of millions of Americans
Oz, who has never held public office, is best known for hosting US daytime TV show The Dr Oz Show.

Rare Tudor paintings show 'fantastical beasts'
The art is found behind plasterwork at a building, dating back to the early reign of Elizabeth I.

'It's such a hard time' - Parents of premature babies welcome extra support
From Sunday, parents of premature or sick babies will be entitled to 12 weeks' paid leave.

South Korea's president has been removed from power: What happens now?
The constitutional court unanimously upheld the impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol.

Chris Mason: Tariffs are yet another example of colossal, upending change
How could Trump's tariffs impact economic growth? Our political editor, Chris Mason, explains.

Woman guilty of abortion clinic buffer zone breach
A 64-year-old woman is convicted of two charges of breaching the Public Spaces Protection Order.

Friday expected to be UK's hottest day of the year
Temperatures could reach 23C in some places, which would make it hotter than Ibiza and Marbella.