Microsoft Windows 1.0, Steve Ballmer, 1986.

Steve Ballmer’s remark “except in Nebraska” at the end of his Windows 1.0 commercial was simply a humorous, off-the-cuff addition with no real meaning. The commercial itself is known for Ballmer’s exaggerated, high-energy style, and the “except in Nebraska” line was likely thrown in for comedic effect. It wasn’t referencing anything specific, nor was it related to any actual sales restriction. It was just a quirky, playful remark to add a bit of humor to the promotion, reflecting the more lighthearted, unconventional tone of early tech marketing. The line has since become a memorable part of the commercial, adding to its cult status among fans of vintage tech ads.

Granted, a bit on the crazy side, but hey… this guy LOVED the products his company did. I prefer this to pathetic lukewarm marketing without identity every time.

This guy was... batshit insane xD

He seems like a funny fellow, but this is an evil man.

It's kind of comforting to know that he's always been using cocaine.

I want him to sell me a car.

Laughing in Workbench

Well I'm sold.

Back when tech people wore ties. Better times.

This video is not from 1986. It was made later in the 90s for a Microsoft conference. They often made humorous self-deprecating videos for developers and other industry professionals.