Microsoft has recently announced the open sourcing of the BASIC interpreter for eight microprocessors – the mos Technology 6502, originally developed in 1975. The version of BASIC released was stored in an 8 kb ROM and was compatible with several systems including Apple II, Commodore Pet, Ohio Scientific, MOS KIM-1C, and PDP-10 simulator. The code, consisting of 6955 lines written in assembler, is now available under the MIT license. The most recent update to the code was on July 28, 1978.
This marks the second historic release by Microsoft, following the publication of the Altair Basic code earlier this year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the company’s founding. Back in 1976, Bill Gates and Rick Weiland worked on porting ALTAIR BASIC to the 6502 microprocessors, which was then licensed by Commodore and used as Commodore Basic in systems like Commodore Pet, Vic-20, and Commodore 64.
The availability of the BASIC code for 6502 processors is likely to excite retro-computer enthusiasts who use emulators and FPGAs for implementation. Notably, Commodore has also recently announced the upcoming release of the Commodore 64 Ultimate, based on FPGA technology, scheduled for October. This new model claims compatibility with over 10,000 retro games, offering features such as Wi-Fi gaming, USB support, and an acceleration mode for launching modern games.