Microsoft founder Bill Gates explores the making of his internal operating system in new memoir

Core Insights - Bill Gates' new memoir, "Source Code: My Beginnings," reflects on his journey from a misunderstood child to a technology leader and philanthropist, exploring his unique cognitive traits and formative experiences [2][5][17] Company Development - Gates co-founded Traf-O-Data, which later evolved into Microsoft in 1975, generating $16,005 in revenue during its first year while Gates and co-founder Paul Allen earned $9 per hour [3] - By 1977, Microsoft had gained enough success for Gates to leave Harvard University, and by 2023, the company reported annual revenues of $212 billion and a market value of $3.1 trillion [4] Personal Background - Gates describes his childhood as marked by social challenges and emotional trauma, particularly the death of his best friend, which significantly influenced his life and career trajectory [10][12] - The memoir highlights Gates' neurodivergent traits, which he believes contributed to his programming skills and success in the tech industry [8][9] Reflections on Technology - Gates expresses amazement at recent advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly in relation to Microsoft's partnership with OpenAI, viewing AI as both an incredible opportunity and a potential risk [16][17] - He emphasizes the need for careful monitoring of AI development, advocating for collaboration between politicians and technologists to manage its impact [17]