The icons (r)evolution

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Xerox icons – 1981

The icon-based interface revolution began with Xerox and the introduction of the graphical user interface (GUI). Before this innovation, using personal computers was cumbersome, forcing users to memorize and type complex text commands. But in the early 1970s, Xerox PARC introduced desktop icons through the groundbreaking Xerox Star system, replacing confusion with clarity. Despite their primitive, pixelated appearance, these icons ignited a transformation, making computers intuitive, engaging, and accessible to everyone.

First ever pixel icons by Xerox

Xerox Star 8010 – 1981

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How Steve Jobs stole the Apple

When computer screens first appeared, consumers struggled with their unfriendly, text-based interfaces.

But things changed dramatically in the early 1980s, when Xerox’s pioneering work inspired the creation of the graphical user interface (GUI). Xerox PARC showcased desktop icons in their Star system, and soon after Steve Jobs visited PARC, Apple launched its own graphical interface, transforming the user experience. The introduction of folder directories, movable “desk accessories,” and icons—primitive yet intuitive—made computers approachable and familiar, revolutionizing consumer interaction forever.

Apple's icons in Lisa

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Apple and Susan Kare: The Iconic Duo – 1984

In 1984, Apple hired Susan Kare, a graphic artist, to design icons for its first Macintosh. The goal was to enhance user-friendliness and bolster their position in the commercial market.

"I believe that good icons are more akin to road signs rather than illustrations, and ideally should present an idea in a clear, concise, and memorable way. I try to optimize for clarity and simplicity even as palette and resolution options have increased." - Susan Kare

Susan Kare's first icons for Macintosh (left) and her sketch of a brush icon (right)

The Macintosh revolutionized computing by introducing clear, relatable metaphors from the physical world—most notably, the “desktop,” which remains fundamental today.

Icons such as the trash can, folders, and printers felt immediately familiar, allowing intuitive interaction. Early Macintosh designs embraced skeuomorphism, giving digital buttons on a calculator a realistic, raised appearance that suggested depth. Even the simple act of positioning displays above interactive buttons made the interface natural, intuitive, and instantly accessible.

Mactintosh System 1 - Interface icons and calculator

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Apple little brothers: Amiga and Atari – 1985

In 1985, two major players emerged: Atari and Amiga. The Atari ST introduced TOS, an operating system built around the desktop metaphor that was quickly becoming a computing standard. Its minimalistic interface notably featured distinctive isometric disk icons, and a flashy green background color.

At the same time, Amiga’s Workbench for the Amiga 1000 pushed interface design forward. Despite its somewhat primitive icons, Workbench offered customizable cursors, vibrant four-color graphics, and innovative multi-state icons. It also departed creatively from the typical desktop approach, introducing a “workbench” concept with drawers rather than traditional file folders.

Atari ST TOS (left), Amiga 1000 by Amiga Workbench (right)

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Microsoft follow the trend – 1985

Windows first launched its Windows 1.0x in 1985. The icons closely resembled Xerox's icon style. The icons were pixel style and looked symbolic to real objects. The whole library feels visually inconsistent—mixing front views with isometric perspectives. It was classic Windows: practical yet undeniably sloppy.

First ever icons for Windows 1.0x

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Apple adds colors to their interfaces – 1991

System 7, codenamed "Big Bang," debuted on May 13, 1991.
Notably, it marked the introduction of color to the Mac OS, and its icon images underwent slight changes to appear more dimensional, with a subtle raised effect. This update signified a pivotal moment in Mac's evolution, aligning with the advancements in computer graphics during that era.

OS System 7 by Apple

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Windows 3.0 – 1990

With Windows 3.0, Microsoft is moving away from the inconsistent, pixelated style of earlier versions. Windows 3.0 offered cleaner, and more standardized icons, unified by an isometric perspective.

Windows 3.0 icons

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Windows 95 – 1995

In 1995, Windows 95 introduced a comprehensive design overhaul that included elements still present in modern Windows designs. The debut of the Start button marked a significant feature of Windows 95, accompanied by icons featuring enhanced color and depth.

Windows 95 with the famous Start button

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The era of shinny icons – From 1998

In 1998, Apple introduced its first "Jelly Mac", featuring ultra-shiny and jelly-like finished icons, marking a significant design leap from previous Mac OS versions. Additionally, the introduction of the Dock rendered icons from either a straightforward or slightly elevated viewpoint, showcasing reflections and textures that were highly appealing to users.

2001 Mac OS X v10.0

Windows follow the 'shiny glass' trend, with good taste this time. As Windows progressed from XP to Vista and Windows 7, Microsoft sought to enhance their icons with a more reflective style, possibly in response to Mac's advancements.

Vista introduced glossy, three-dimensional icons with vibrant colors and lifelike textures, aiming for a modern and visually attractive appearance. These icons were crafted to convey depth and dimension, aligning with the overall design philosophy of the Aero Glass operating system.

Windows Vista

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Minimal flat interfaces – From 2010s

Shadows and reflections were once used to mimic the depth of real-world objects, but minimalism has shifted the trend towards simplicity.

Microsoft shook things up with its "Metro" design language, initially launched in Windows Phone 7 but later renamed "Microsoft Design Language" or "Modern UI." This approach prioritized clean typography, simplified icons, and a user-centric focus on content and functionality. It soon spread to other Microsoft products.

Meanwhile, Apple adopted the flat design bandwagon with iOS 7 in 2013. iOS 7 fully embraced the flat design aesthetic throughout the interface.

Windows Phone 7 (left), Apple iOS 7 (right)