The journey of innovation and failure begins, setting the stage for the transformative era in computing from the 1970s through the 1990s.

As companies like Microsoft and Apple emerged, early pioneers like Wang Laboratories blazed a trail in the world of computing.

An Wang’s journey—from his studies in Shanghai and Harvard to his fascination with electronics—sparked a revolution in technology.

In 1948, An Wang invented magnetic core memory, a breakthrough that powered computer memories for decades before microchips arrived.

In 1951, driven by innovation, An Wang founded Wang Laboratories, setting the stage for a company that would soon become a household name.

Frustration set in when Wang sold his core memory patent to IBM for $500,000—a decision that shaped the company’s future challenges.

Wang Laboratories transformed office work with its innovative word processors, replacing clunky typewriters and streamlining document creation.

The distinctive green-tinted screens of Wang’s machines became a staple in offices, symbolizing a leap forward in business technology.

Alongside its word processors, Wang introduced minicomputers that replaced expensive mainframes, marking a significant shift in computing.

Complacency and rapid technological advances left Wang Laboratories struggling to keep pace with the booming personal computer revolution.

Mounting debt, a shrinking workforce, and an inability to adapt ultimately led to the downfall of a once-dominant tech giant.

The rise and fall of Wang Laboratories offers a powerful reminder: continuous innovation and adaptability are key to surviving in the tech industry.