“Something is going on with the Macintosh,” David Pogue blogs for The New York Times.
Pogue writes, “The best theory I’ve heard is: ‘Windows Vista.’ When people found out they’d have to buy a new computer and learn a new interface, a certain slice of them just said, ‘Well, if I have to buy a new machine and learn a new interface, I may as well get the cool-looking, virus-free one.'”
Pogue writes, “But could that effect explain this gigantic 35 percent leap in just 12 months? It’s still an expensive proposition to switch platforms once you’ve got an investment in software and peripherals.”
Full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: Obviously, those switching due to Vista disappointment and for other reasons must realize that they can also slum it with Windows XP (or even the dreaded Vista) on their beautiful new Macs. Therefore, since they’re buying a new computer anyway, there is no “expensive proposition to switch platforms,” since they’re able to utilize their Windows software on their new Macs via Apple’s Boot Camp or via fast, inexpensive virtualization from Parallels (Desktop for Mac) or VMWare (Fusion).
Buying a Mac gives users OS-unlimited machines. No OS-limited PC box assembler can match the value; HP, Dell, etc. simply can’t offer Mac OS X Leopard, iLife, iWork, etc.
Because Apple provides a means for the sufferers to bring along their Windows insecurity blanket with them, they can switch to the Mac versions of their WIndows apps over time as part of their normal upgrade cycles. Also, their printers, drives, scanners, and other peripherals are quite likely to be USB and therefore Mac-compatible, too.
When it comes time to buy a new computer, smart people get themselves Macs. We expect the Mac surge to continue and accelerate over time as more and more people become informed.
[Thanks to MacDailyNews Reader “Linux Guy And Mac Prodigal Son” for the heads up.]