Four Reasons 2007 Will Be Apple’s Year

The Apple – Microsoft battle is kind of like the Hatfields and the McCoys. Well, sort of. But it’s definitely a fiery contest with passionate people on both sides. But Apple has taken some Microsoft territory lately. In fact, there are some staggering statistics as of late that show Apple is on the move. In the latest quarter, Apple sales were up $1 billion or 41%. Also, they garnered 12% more of the laptop market. But really, that is not the biggest news in the figures. The biggest news was that 50% of folks purchasing a Mac were new. That is a staggering number. But those aren’t the only signs that tell me that 2007 is going to be Apple’s year.

1. Application Portability

One of the major complaints against switching to a Mac is the programs. People want to have their cake and eat it too. And I don’t blame them. I mentioned the program Wine in a previous post. This incredible piece of software allows you to run Windows programs on linux. But what really caught my eye was news that they are working on a version for Mac. When that becomes available, that will remove a roadbloack for most people. Now, I know that the latest, Intel-based Macs can run boot camp. That allows you to boot into Windows on your Mac. But I think it’s much more compelling to be able to run Windows programs within the Mac OS. Also, did you know that Sun Microsystems has an office suite called Open Office? You might be interested to know that it’s free and it’s interoperable with Microsoft Office. You heard me right. Yet another example of alternatives popping up. Oh, and it’s available for Mac too

2. Easy to Use & Super Cool Too

Mac users tout this mantra over and over. The reason for it is because it’s true. Apple makes using their products a snap. You turn it on and you’re ready to go. Sure, it takes a little getting used to if your a Windows user. But it won’t take you long at all to get very comfortable. You don’t have to worry about spyware or viruses. That simple sentence is huge. As a side note, it will be interesting to see if that changes when the market pushes more in Apple’s favor. Apple makes things intuitive on Macs. And Apple takes design very seriously. This is readily apparent when you look at an iPod or a Mac. Apple doesn’t just make their products functional – they make it a working piece of art. And let’s face it – most everyone wants to look cool, even if they aren’t!

3. Growing Microsoft Discontent & Apple Joy

If you have your ear to the ground, you will hear a very distinct rumble. And it’s not the sound of a heard of buffalo. People are starting to grumble about Windows – and it’s getting louder. And it’s not the sound of a heard of buffalo. People are starting to grumble about Windows – and it’s getting louder.  People are getting very tired of the constant security threats. Companies are very tired of the massive cost of software. Everyday users are sick of the struggle of using a PC. I hear this a lot. And that’s why Apple’s current commercials are so brilliant. They are driving the stake into the ground, or elsewhere. And Apple knows it. Microsoft’s latest operating system, Vista, has been delayed more times than a trans-Atlantic flight. I’ve been calling it hasta-la-vista. I heard Bill Gates say that he was now 80% sure that Vista would be delivered on time, in the spring. That’s not very reassuring. In the midst of that, Apple declares that their latest OS, Leopard, will be released on time, in the spring. Sounds like Leopard is on the prowl.

4. Intel Switch and a Tipping Point

Apple’s switch to Intel processors was another great move – though some will argue that point. The benefit was not cost. Jobs has been eyeing a bigger piece of the PC market for a long time. This move will also allow Apple to leverage a new Intel technology called virtualization. Intel is partnering with VMWare to provide this type of virtualization. This allows you to run more than one operating system on your computer at the same time. I show you how to do this on Windows or Linux on my post on EasyVMX. But personally, I like the Wine idea even better – and that’s a closer reality in my mind. But again, I go back to that original stat that I quoted. Fifty percent of people buying Macs were new to Macs. A grassroots movement is ripening in the Apple arena. That passion is spreading outward.  Oh, it looks like 2007 will be Apple’s year.

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