Windows Throwback theme is a wave of nostalgia for your PC

What you need to know

  • The Windows Throwback theme packs nine retro wallpapers based on PCs from the 1980s.
  • The theme also includes the same sounds that shipped on older devices.
  • Microsoft is on a nostalgia wave right now with the release of Windows 1.1 in the Microsoft Store.

Microsoft continues their nostalgia wave with a new Windows Throwback theme. The theme includes nine wallpapers inspired by PCs in the 1980s. In addition to the wallpapers, the theme includes Windows sounds that will bring anyone back decades.

Microsoft is riding the nostalgia wave this month. In addition to this new theme, Windows 1.11 has shown up in the Microsoft Store. It is a game based around Windows 1 and Stranger Things. Microsoft teased the release of the game all last week. The popular show's third season is based in 1985, the same year that Windows 1 came out.

You can download the Windows Throwback theme for free from the Microsoft Store. Once it's installed, you can click apply and customize it further within the Settings app.

Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love

Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.

VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)

This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.

Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)

Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)

This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.