In the world of technology there are some iconic brands that have made a name for themselves and fame over the years, being recognized and valued by practically everyone. When we talk about laptops, both in the business and consumer world, ThinkPad is one of them, with powerful and versatile computers in equal measure.
ThinkPad, as a brand, has just turned 30 years old. Already in the hands of Lenovo, it has been experiencing a kind of second (and improved) youth for some time. In fact, while the company belonged to IBM, from its origin in 1992 until 2005, 25 million ThinkPad computers were sold. Since 2005, already under the Lenovo seal, and to date, there are more than 175 million.
Some curiosities about the ThinkPad brand
In 30 years there is time for many things. From setting sales records to launching models that have marked a before and after in history. For example, did you know that the ThinkPad traveled to space in 1993? It was the ThinkPad 750 model and was NASA’s reference computer at that time.
But not only that, in a current moment where it is increasingly difficult to innovate with each launch, ThinkPad was the first to market a computer with a built-in printer. In this case it was the ThinkPad 550 BJ, also launched in 1993 and which, developed together with Canon, included a store inkjet printer in its chassis.
Just one year later, ThinkPad would launch a computer with a CD reader, quite a feat for the time. And in 1997, with Windows 95 and Pentium processors, the DVD reader arrived.
30 years of leadership
The ThinkPad brand’s leadership in the market, throughout its 30-year history, is built on a series of pillars. The first is the commitment to the customer to offer a durable product that promotes mobility and meets all the security requirements demanded in the business world.
Another of the pillars in which it has put more effort is its commitment to the environment. There are three axes in this field: reduce the amount of waste, reduce the carbon footprint and improve the circular economy, giving new life to equipment that no longer works. When we talk about a company that sells millions of devices a year, each improvement in any of these three points is a very positive impact on the environment.
What ranges currently make up the ThinkPad family?
The catalog of options within the ThinkPad family is enormous. There is practically the perfect computer for each person, depending on their needs. With the help of partners such as Intel, AMD and of course Microsoftthere are six families of ThinkPad laptops.
From the ThinkPad E range, with more reasonable prices, to the ThinkPad X1 range, with the most premium on the market, and passing through the ThinkPad X family that includes powerful models, from 2-in-1 systems with 360-degree hinges, tablets with removable keyboards, and smaller laptops.
Hand in hand with Microsoft for 30 years
The history of the ThinkPad brand cannot be understood without Microsoft and its Windows operating system. An alliance that makes a lot of sense if we take into account that both are technological giants, one in hardware and the other in software. The result is being able to offer solutions that provide innovation, reliability and security to all users.
If you look at the latest version from Microsoft, Windows 11, included on all ThinkPad computers pre-installedwe have the necessary tools to improve productivity, and they increase even more together with other software tools such as the Office application suite.
For its part, in recent years Lenovo has established itself as an authorized distributor of Microsoft licensesand cloud solutions provider, operating in more than 160 countries.
In a sector where technology brands constantly appear and disappear, Being able to trust two established companies like Lenovo and Microsoft makes the purchasing decision much easier.. Looking at the first 30 years of ThinkPad, I’m sure the next 30 will be exciting.