How has the evolution of Windows operating systems influenced modern user interface design?

Since its first release in 1985, the Windows operating system has undergone significant transformations, shaping the landscape of computer interfaces. Each significant version, from Windows 95's revolutionary Start Menu to Windows 11's streamlined, tile-based layout, reflects changes in design philosophy and user preferences. This question examines how these evolutions in Windows have contributed to the broader trends in user interface design, influencing not only competitors like macOS and Linux desktops but also inspiring changes in mobile and web application interfaces. By analyzing these developments, we can better understand how operating systems shape our daily interactions with technology.