2015 Now

In July 2015 , Microsoft did the unthinkable: they gave away Windows 10 for free. Trying to erase the PR disaster of Windows 8, Microsoft skipped a number (9) and pushed a unified operating system. It was the end of the "PC era" in spirit; Microsoft finally admitted they were a service company, not a software seller.

In December, 195 nations adopted the first-ever universal, legally binding global climate deal at COP21. This historic pact committed the world to limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius. In July 2015 , Microsoft did the unthinkable:

: A groundbreaking investigative piece by Wired that demonstrated the vulnerabilities of connected cars. In December, 195 nations adopted the first-ever universal,

Meanwhile, the Syrian civil war raged on, and 2015 witnessed the rapid rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The terrorist group controlled vast swaths of territory and carried out horrific attacks that shocked the globe. In November 2015, coordinated assaults in Paris—including shootings and bombings at the Bataclan theatre, restaurants, and the Stade de France—killed 130 people and injured hundreds more. The attacks, claimed by ISIS, prompted a massive French military response and reshaped security policies across Europe. Earlier in the year, ISIS had also destroyed ancient artifacts in Palmyra, Syria, underscoring their brutal campaign against cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the Syrian civil war raged on, and

: The Ethereum blockchain launched its first live mainnet, Genesis. This introduction of programmable smart contracts permanently expanded blockchain tech beyond basic digital currency into decentralized applications. Apple Watch Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

Millions of refugees, largely fleeing the Syrian Civil War, crossed into Europe, sparking intense political debate across the continent.

In December, 196 nations adopted the Paris Agreement at COP21. This landmark accord created a unified global framework to combat climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius.