For the past five decades, Microsoft has been at the forefront of innovation and technological transformation, consistently striving to empower individuals and businesses worldwide. From pioneering the personal computing revolution with MS-DOS and Windows, which revolutionized personal computing, to gaming innovation of Xbox, the future of cloud computing with Azure, AI transformation with Copilot and the latest breakthrough in quantum computing, the Majorana 1 chip, Microsoft has consistently been at the forefront of technological progress.
Overall, Microsoft’s journey towards AI has been marked by crucial milestones over the past five decades. From early innovations like machine learning and natural language processing to the development of tools such as Azure AI and the launch of products like ResNet, Microsoft has transformed AI from a conceptual idea to a crucial part of everyday life.
We are in the intelligent age where AI, quantum computing, and blockchain are reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. Data has become a critical asset, fueling AI advancements and enabling businesses to make more informed decisions. Microsoft’s AI solutions, including its Copilot AI assistant, have gained widespread integration, with over 85% of Fortune 500 companies leveraging Microsoft AI and nearly 70% integrating Microsoft 365 Copilot into their operations. The rise of intelligent agents, or “agentification,” represents the next transformative shift, allowing AI-powered systems to perform tasks autonomously.
The first Microsoft’s office in Kazakhstan opened 22 years ago
As Microsoft marks its 50th anniversary, it also celebrates 22 years of operating in Kazakhstan. The company established its office in the country in 2002 and has since played a key role in supporting governments, businesses, and communities in integrating cutting-edge technologies and innovations. By providing digital skills trainings and promoting digitalization, AI integration, Microsoft has contributed to the region’s technological advancement. The company’s strong network of partners has been instrumental in driving this transformation, recognizing AI as a pivotal force in reshaping industries. Across Kazakhstan, organizations and institutions are increasingly embracing AI’s potential to enhance efficiency and innovation.
Businesses across the country are getting excited about the possibilities. Take KAZ Minerals, for instance. They’re leveraging Microsoft Copilot within Microsoft 365 to enhance their operations, empowering their employees to work more efficiently and effectively.
NCOC, a leading oil and gas firm in Kazakhstan, optimized project management by integrating Microsoft Project for the web and Power Platform, centralizing data and improving efficiency. As a result, issue resolution is now three times faster.
Air Astana enhanced financial reporting with Microsoft Azure Synapse Analytics and Power BI, cutting report generation from up to an hour to just 30–40 seconds. This accelerated month-end closing by 5–8 hours, boosting productivity and enabling better financial analysis.
Microsoft highlights the importance of cloud computing and AI in increasing efficiency and driving innovations. Recognizing this, the company initiated the Azure Days Eurasia that was conducted in Almaty and Astana. On these events it highlighted that Microsoft would continue to support Kazakhstan’s digital transformation by promoting the integration of public cloud solutions.
As world faces multiple challenges alongside growing digital demands, AI is key to resilience and growth. With increasing needs for cybersecurity and data governance, Microsoft is committed to providing secure, AI-driven solutions that support the region’s digital economy. Within the Azure AI Foundry company provides developers access to over 1,800 foundation models from OpenAI, Meta, Mistral, DeepSeek and others. It also supports startups and ISVs in innovating locally and scaling globally within Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub.
Microsoft is supporting AI skills development. In Europe, over 2.9 million people have already gained digital capabilities through Microsoft programs, with a goal to reach 8 million by 2025. Additionally, regional initiatives include hackathons, AI Skills 4 Women programs are being developed in partnership with Founderz, AI Skills Fest initiative and Free AI learning tools via LinkedIn Learning and Microsoft Learn are available to anyone, anywhere.
“We are proud to have been working with all sectors of Kazakhstan’s economy for more than 20 years — from small and medium-sized businesses to large corporations. It is a pleasure to see how our local partners help clients maximize the use of Microsoft solutions. It is impossible not to notice the active development of the Kazakhstani community: people are coming together to learn about technologies, helping each other master data analytics, cloud technologies, sharing experiences about accessible online learning and certifications, as well as discussing current job vacancies and solutions to work-related issues. Our goal as a company is to create an inclusive culture where everyone can unlock their potential, fostering innovation in an atmosphere of growth and collaboration,” – said Sergey Leschenko, Country Manager of CIS.
Next 50 years
As Microsoft celebrates its 50th anniversary, the company looks back on a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and empowerment. Remaining committed to driving positive change, Microsoft continues to create long-term value for its customers and society by investing in people, staying true to its mission, earning the trust of customers and nations, fostering responsible innovation, prioritizing security, and developing impactful products.
Microsoft remains committed to ensuring that AI, becoming a General-Purpose Technology (GPT), benefits everyone. With continued investments in infrastructure, innovation, and talent, the company is helping to build an AI economy rooted in European values such as privacy, transparency, and security.
“To capitalize on the transformative potential of AI now is the time for leaders in Kazakhstan to act. By prioritizing digital skills, fostering SMEs AI adoption, and investing in ICT talent, we can unlock new economic opportunities and ensure a future-ready workforce.” concluded Leschenko.
Together with the strong partner ecosystem, Microsoft remains committed to driving this change through innovation, collaboration, and strategic investments in Kazakhstan.
Explore more: Microsoft celebrates 50 years – executive’s quotes, photos, key milestones timeline and more materials.
