Apple released boot camp last week which will allow Intel Mac users to boot into OS X 10.4 or Windows XP. I’m just trying to figure out just how Apple benefits from this development. Clearly, Microsoft would love to sell another retail copy of Windows XP which makes them far more money than selling another OEM version. Microsoft must love the idea of Apple releasing a product that could drive sales of retail XP.
But how does Apple benefit from Boot Camp? I suppose the train of thought goes something like this:
- Lots of unhappy Windows users
- Unhappy users have invested $$$ in Windows software
- Bootcamp gives them chance to use existing Windows software
- Allows Windows users to transition to OS X 10.4 at own pace
- Apple gains a hardware sale that would have gone to Dell or whomever
- Comparison of OSes eventually results in Windows user converting to Apple hardware & software
It just seems like a lot of things have to fall in place for Apple to reap even a fraction of the benefits Microsoft will gain. I look forward to the day when I can build my own computer chosing the brand and quality of every part that goes into my Lian-Li case. And once I’ve done that I can chose between a Microsoft or Apple OS with zero compromises.
Nordquist Blog 