Printer-Friendly
Email this Story
Post a Comment (6)
R.I.P. Apple Computer, Inc., thanks for changing the world.
You may read the title of this asking, "But Apple is still around, why do you say 'R.I.P.' did I miss something?". If that is your first impression don't worry, you are 100% correct, Apple is still around. However, at Macworld San Francisco (an annual conference held in January), keynote speaker Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Inc., announced that Apple Computer, Inc. has officially changed it's name to Apple, Inc.. While this may seem like a trivial technicality to some of you. For me, an avid Mac user, and fan of Apple's innovation in the computer industry, this change is a sign of what's to come.Now let me just start this off by saying this, I've always believed that the iPod would provide for the eventual weakening of Apple's computers. It's quite apparent that Apple has been shifting their focus from computers, and more towards consumer electronics and software. While this would be a smart move for Apple to make, for someone who enjoys their hardware, it hurts a little to watch it all unfold. I wouldn't be surprised to see Apple, sometime in the future, transform into a software/electronics company and give up on the hardware aspect of their computers altogether. Not to be lost in the fray is Apple's top notch software. With programs such as: Mac OS X; Final Cut Pro; iLife; Shake; Motion; Aperture; Logic; among others, Apple has a stronghold on quite a few industries, and it doesn't seem as if they plan on losing that grip at any point in the future. In regards to Apple's eventual aversion from the computer hardware they've commenced laying the foundation for such a move, by making the switch to Intel processors in 2006. Again, this was an extremely smart move considering the Intel move means that, eventually, people will be able to build their own Macs (which I would love to see). But on the other hand, I find it hard to believe that Apple will have the ability to be as innovative with their technology since they wont have as much control over what goes into the computers.
Also, let's look at this practically, from a dollars and cents standpoint. Apple makes the most money from the sale of their electronics and software. In-fact, the amount of money that they make from their computers is essentially chump change, in comparison to their software and electronics sales. So, what if they could put all of their efforts (and money) into their exceptional software and the hardware that makes them the most money? For one, it would make them a lot more money, along with giving them much more exposure to an even larger customer base, than what they currently have. For instance, if Apple were to pull out of the computer (hardware) game, and sell Mac OS X hardware independent, you'd see a dramatic shift in the operating system landscape, because they would open the door to the people who've always wanted to build their own Macs, for gaming, ultimate customization, etc.
Overall, it's a very smart business move for Apple to make, but while I'd be happy to see Apple grow even more as a company, I can't say that I'd be too excited to see them to lose their hardware "body". To sum it all up, Apple would essentially make themselves stronger, by pulling a metaphorical "Obi-Wan Kenobi".
Would you say that the introduction of Intel based Macs will lead it down the road of instability, much like Windows? I heard that Apple recently released a version of Safari for Windows. Within hours, tons of holes were found which could be hacked and used maliciously.
I am a master debater. Deal with it.
Your move.
Posted by B_Rich_Edmondson
Report Offensive Content
As in the movie " Oh Brother Where Art Thou" you should be the "braintrust" for Apple,Inc.,and I did not know they changed the name. Very interesting!! Which may explain your therory. I find it hard to beleive that a CEO over there has not seen the same scenerio. Great blog. Look forward to more of your insight in the World of Geeks!!
Susie
Posted by SusanClawson
Report Offensive Content
I'm a Mac lover myself and was upset when I first heard about the name change earlier this month, especially since I don't even own an IPod. Hopefully your prediction won't come true anytime soon because I'm afraid I might need to upgrade from my IBook I used in college soon and can't afford to do so just yet. I wish they'd switch out our PCs here in the newsroom and give us Macs. I'm jealous of the departments that have them (although I know everyone else back here probably wouldn't be too thrilled about a switch).
-- Jana
Posted by S_Jrenn
Report Offensive Content
Your insight is interesting and makes a lot of sense. Things are moving at the speed of bytes, aren't they?
Robin
Posted by rearl
Report Offensive Content
Once you go MAC, you never go back.
Posted by Ahnuneemoose
Report Offensive Content
Hey PCers.. don't be afraid of what you don't know. Apple rules!!
Posted by S_Jjacks
Report Offensive Content
You must be logged in to post a comment.