HP Logo Design: History & Evolution

 

A Journey Through Iconic Designs

When thinking of iconic symbols in the tech world, the HP logo stands out as a prominent example. Hewlett-Packard, commonly known as HP, has been associated with innovation, quality, and trust for decades. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a graphic designer, or simply someone who has used a computer, you’ve likely encountered this emblem. But have you ever wondered about the origins and evolution of the HP logo? Just like the Amazon logo, it has an intriguing history.

This article delves into the intriguing journey of how the HP logo has transformed over the years, adapting to market trends and design paradigms. We’ll explore the brilliant minds behind its creation, the subtle changes in its form and color palette, and how it has retained its timeless appeal. Whether you’re curious about its history, interested in the principles of effective logo design, or considering logo design services, we’ve got you covered. So let’s begin and uncover the captivating story of the HP logo design!

The HP logo is a familiar sight. One of the most prominent technology companies in the world, Hewlett-Packard has a strong global presence. Although the logo has seen several changes over the years, the core design has remained largely consistent since 1939, much like the iconic designs crafted by logo design services in California. HP’s use of a monogram logo makes it highly memorable. The decision to shorten “Hewlett-Packard” to “HP” for branding purposes enhances this memorability. This kind of strategic decision is often recommended by a logo design company.

Today, we’ll examine how the Hewlett-Packard Inc. logo has evolved. HP, the new name for the American IT company established in 1939, is renowned for its computers and accessories. Initially, the company focused on software and computing services for both commercial and individual customers. The HP logo symbolizes pushing boundaries, expanding horizons, and staying ahead of its time. Its design is visually pleasing, with a color scheme representing business acumen and innovation, reflecting a commitment to creating maximum comfort for users. This evolution mirrors the work done by a logo design company in Florida, where innovation meets aesthetic appeal.

Founded in Palo Alto, California, HP began in 1957 as a semiconductor device manufacturer. In the 1960s, it collaborated with companies like Sony and Yokogawa Electronic, leading to the formation of Yokogawa-Hewlett-Packard in 1963. Over time, HP’s focus shifted from computing services to manufacturing computers and accessories. In 1966, HP launched its first minicomputers, the HP 2100/HP 1000 series. For businesses looking to make a similar impact, partnering with a logo design agency can be pivotal.

Despite various updates, the HP logo’s core design has remained largely unchanged since its inception. The monogram logo simplifies memorability, and the strategic decision to abbreviate the name for branding purposes has proven effective. Companies often seek the expertise of a logo design agency in Texas to achieve similar branding success. Let’s take a look at the evolution of the iconic HP logo over the years. From its inception to the latest version, each iteration reflects the brand’s growth and adaptation. Here’s a glimpse into the changes: Just like a custom logo design agency would approach redesigns with careful consideration of brand identity and market trends.

1974: Hewlett-Packard standardized flanking arms that became their identity for a decade.

1981: The HP logo was placed in both a circle and a rectangle.

2009: The logo retained the circle from the previous design, reversed the colors, and removed the rectangle.

2012: A refreshed logo introduced a new color, and the monogram was made slightly larger.

2016: The latest version appeared in April 2016 on Specter 13 laptops, showcasing the importance of professional logo design services in staying contemporary.

HP remains a notable American electronics manufacturer, especially known for laptops and hardware. Despite its division into two companies in 2015, with HP Inc. as the main successor, the HP logo continues to symbolize a legacy of innovation and quality. This longevity and adaptability are traits any custom logo design company would aim to instill in their clients’ brands.

For those interested in the HP logo’s evolution, the story is one of subtle refinement and enduring brand identity. By collaborating with a professional logo design agency, companies can ensure their logos convey the desired message and stand the test of time. Much like HP, businesses today benefit from the insights and expertise offered by custom logo design services, ensuring their brand remains relevant and memorable. HP’s logo journey is a testament to how effective branding strategies and professional logo design company insights can shape a brand’s visual identity. For companies looking to make a similar impact, exploring professional logo design services is a wise step.

From superhero logos to fast food logos, and even abstract logo designs, the principles of effective logo design remain consistent. Whether you’re seeking business logo design ideas or animated logo designs, partnering with logo design service professionals can make a significant difference. Custom logo design services and professional logo design services offer the expertise needed to create memorable and impactful brand identities. The HP logo’s evolution is a prime example of how thoughtful design and strategic branding can create an enduring symbol. For businesses aiming to craft a similar legacy, seeking affordable logo design services can provide the foundation for a successful brand image.

The Brand Value

HP Inc. creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our portfolio of personal systems, printers and 3D printing solutions, we engineer experiences that amaze.

The History of HP (Hewlett-Packard Company)

Hewlett-Packard Company, an American software and computer services manufacturer, was founded in 1939 by William R. Hewlett and David Packard. The company was a pioneer in Silicon Valley, benefiting from engineering professor Frederick Terman’s ideas. The company’s reputation was established through sophisticated instrumentation, and during World War II, it developed military-related products for Walt Disney Productions and the Naval Research Laboratory.

Hewlett-Packard, a leading technology company, experienced significant growth after the Korean War, introducing the first desktop calculator and pocket-sized calculator in 1964. The company’s military expertise was highlighted in 1969 when Nixon appointed Packard deputy secretary of defense.

In the mid-1980s, it lost business to rivals like Sun Microsystems and Apollo Computer. In 1989, it bought Apollo to become the number one workstation maker. In 2007, Hewlett-Packard became the first technology company to exceed $100 billion in sales revenue. In 2011, the company announced it would discontinue smartphones and its TouchPad and consider spinning off its PC business.

HP Logo Design History

The First HP Logo (1939–1954)

The company’s debut emblem, featuring the founders’ names and marketing-related information, features the lowercase letters “hp” enclosed in a circle, protruding outward.

The Second Version of Logo (1954–1974)

The 1954–1974 logo design reflected HP’s growth and transition while maintaining its foundational principles. The logo served as a mirror reflecting the company’s growth while maintaining its roots.

The Third Version of Logo (1964–1981)

The HP emblem, now in blue, is positioned between two multidirectional rectangles with white space at the junction. The lower part is solid black, while the upper part is blue with wide stripes. The logo decodes the corporation’s founders’ names in thin capital letters.

The Fourth Version of Logo (1979–2008)

Developers transformed a circle into a vertical rectangle, highlighting the company name. The “hp” letters are painted blue, diagonally placed in a white circle, and have bold, smooth sans-serif glyphs on the right side.

The Fifth Version of Logo (1999–2012)

In 1999, Siegel + Gale design bureau enhanced the logo to a streamlined blue design, featuring a horizontal rounded rectangle with “hp” in the center on a white background.

The Sixth Version of Logo (2008–2014)

The emblem of those years became round again. A blue or black circle on the background of which the abbreviation “hp” was executed in white.

The Seventh Version of Logo (2009–2014)

The 2008–2014 version may appear identical, but there are differences such as larger signs, increased intra-letter space, and a slightly lighter color, with one tone change.

The Eighth Version of Logo (2012 — today)

In 2012, the round logo was reintroduced in a softened palette, but the IT corporation was divided into two independent companies, HP Inc., which produced digital equipment. The 1981 emblem is now used in soft colors.

The Ninth Version of Logo (2016 — today)

In 2016, the company finally decided to adopt a new trademark developed for it by Moving Brands studio in 2008–2011. It has four oblique black strokes and is found on premium products.

Font and Colors

The logo features four lines at a 13-degree angle, representing different parts of the corporation name. It’s sleek, elegant, and innovative, but difficult to read. The abbreviated company name is in lowercase letters, with a simple, sans serif typeface.

The 1974 logo, designed in blue, symbolizes reliability, professionalism, protection, and the latest technology, while the black and white emblem represents the corporation’s commitment to innovation.

HP color codes

FAQs

What does the HP logo symbolize?

The HP logo symbolizes innovation, quality, and trust, representing the brand’s long-standing reputation in the tech industry.

How has the HP logo evolved?

The HP logo has evolved from a monochrome design in 1939 to a sleek, minimalist, and modern look in recent years, adapting to market trends.

What was the original HP logo like?

The original HP logo featured a solid black circle with italicized, lowercased “hp” initials and extending tails, giving it a unique flair.

Why did HP change its logo in 1954?

HP changed its logo in 1954 to reflect the company’s growth and maturity, adopting a cleaner and more minimalist design to match its expanding market presence.

What is unique about the 2016 HP logo?

The 2016 HP logo uses minimalist vertical lines to form the ‘h’ and ‘p’, offering a futuristic and sophisticated aesthetic that stands out.

How does HP use color in its logo?

HP uses blue to convey reliability and trust, transitioning from a monochrome palette to a lighter blue, reflecting a more friendly and approachable brand image.

Why is simplicity important in HP’s logo design?

Simplicity ensures the HP logo is clear, memorable, and easily adaptable to various applications, maintaining brand consistency over the decades.

Conclusion

The HP logo design is a masterclass in adaptability, consistency, and storytelling. From its simple beginnings in 1939 to its sleek, modern look today, the HP logo has evolved with market trends while retaining its core identity. This journey offers valuable lessons in branding, making the HP logo one of the most iconic and enduring symbols in the tech world.