Remember the cute paperclip helper back in the 90’s?
In 1995, a small animated paperclip changed the way people experienced computers. Meet Clippit, the iconic helper from Microsoft Office that popped up with a friendly smile and a simple message: “It looks like you’re writing a letter. Would you like help?”
Introduced with Microsoft Office 97, Clippit quickly became one of the most recognisable digital assistants of the early computer era. Designed to guide users through writing letters, formatting documents, and learning how to use Word, this little paperclip tried his best to make technology easier for everyone.
Some loved him. Many clicked “go away.”
But no matter how you felt about him, Clippit became a legend of 90s computing.
Before modern AI assistants and smart tools took over our screens, Clippit represented a simpler time when software had personality and even a tiny office supply could become a digital companion.
This video is a nostalgic look back at the rise, fall, and cultural impact of the beloved (and sometimes annoying) Office Assistant.
If you remember Clippy popping up while you were trying to finish homework or write a report, this one is for you.