There are few things as 90s as Microsoft's attempt at a virtual assistant. Built into early versions of Microsoft Office for Windows, the Office Assistant was a way of helping users navigate the company's software. While there were many Office Assistants, none were as memorable as the sentient paperclip, Clippy.
While Clippy and Co. were laid to rest in 2007, the internet has not forgotten that which once infuriated. Since ideas and characters just can't stay dead anymore, Microsoft has disturbed their iconic paperclip’s eternal slumber for some publicity.
Clippy is back, baby!
Announced on Twitter, Microsoft is bringing the little paperclip back Weekend at Burnie’s style. Dragged back to work, the aged mascot is replacing the standard paperclip emoji in Microsoft 365.
Instead of boring, flat, 2D emoji, Microsoft 365 is using new 3D emoji. They all look pretty cute, even Clippy! While the old version of the Office Assistant once looked like a bug-eyed virtual serial killer, he seems well-adjusted to his new environment. In fact, he kinda looks like a Baby Muppets version of the original. Reincarnation, baby!
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Microsoft couldn't help itself
In a blog post detailing the refreshed emoji lineup for Microsoft 365, the company explained that they couldn't resist bringing back the old Office Assistant. Using the opportunity to bring back one of Windows' only recognisable mascots was just too much to pass off!
Microsoft wrote:
“We had to use this opportunity to make a change that only we could truly make — so long flat, standard paperclip, and hello Clippy! Sure, we may use fewer paper clips today than we did in Clippy’s heyday, but we couldn’t resist the nostalgic pull.”
The revived paperclip won't talk or bug you while you work or do much of anything, really. However, it will still stare at you with vacant, soulless eyes. While it may not look like it wants to kill you like before, those new eyes look like someone who's seen what comes after. He knows what death is like.
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