Microsoft Bob tried to make Windows easier by turning a computer desktop into a cartoon house. Instead of opening programs from menus, users clicked familiar objects in rooms: a desk, a calendar, a checkbook. A dog named Rover offered guidance.
Bob arrived in March 1995, just before Windows 95 brought its own friendlier interface. TIME later noted Bob could not compete with Microsoft’s new operating system; Microsoft discontinued it after about a year. Charming premise, unfortunate timing: the house was asking users to learn a second interface right as Windows was replacing the first.
Sources: TIME, “Saying Goodbye to Bob”.
Image: Microsoft Bob logo / Wikimedia Commons; source listed as Microsoft, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.