The folks at Microsoft have changed something fundamental in our world without asking our opinion or permission in 2024.
No, it isn’t a security-related issue.
No, it isn’t removing the start button. Again.
No, it doesn’t affect anyone’s quality of life.
A recent update to the Microsoft operating system most of us use daily changed the default font from Calibri to Aptos.
Are you shrugging your shoulders and saying, “So what?” Many will. But we’re creatives here and fonts are essential to expressing brand style, mood, and affect readability. So we notice!
Certainly Aptos is readable and truly, not radically different than Calibri. But it is significant. Just try copying/pasting from old docs into new ones and you’ll see the difference!
Because the difference will be noticeable, our designers will shudder to have the inconsistency in typeface in one space.
In a January 26, 2024, Popular Science magazine article posted online, they wrote, “In April 2021, Microsoft’s design department announced the search was on for its next default typeface, one that could hold its own against in a world of 4K, ultra-HD, and all manner of other modern, higher-resolution options to come. Five potential replacements debuted as test options for Office users, all with very font-esque names like Grandview, Seaford, Skeena, Tenorite, and Bierstadt.”
So Microsoft engaged in a search that culminated in the transition staggering onto our screens and psyches in early 2024. And the font chosen wasn’t Grandview, Seaford, Skeena, Tenorite, OR Bierstadt. It was Aptos which the article author said was a slighty adapted version of Bierstedt.
But why?
They explain, “Described as Calibri’s ‘modern successor,’ Aptos is meant as ‘the perfect font for higher resolution screens,’ possessing a ‘sharpness [and] uniformity’ with higher resolution screens in mind.”
What will be mostly invisible to those not attuned to the minutiae of design and usability reflects an ongoing effort on our part to develop materials ready for the rapidly evolving and ever more present digital sphere. It all matters!
So, Aptos, welcome. We’ll keep our eye on you!
In March, we recognize a significant milestone as Katie celebrates her 10th anniversary at HMG! We are blessed by her design skills, go-with-the-flow attitude, and team spirit. We depend on Katie for brand consistency, tackling the big projects, and innovating along the way.
Thanks, Katie! Cheers to 10 years and best wishes for many more helping tell HMG’s customers’ stories!
