Apple Switch to OS X

Posted : 16 Oct 02 & Multiple updates below

This one is important (for Mac users). Please read right through.

Apple, early in 2003 (probably in January) is going to make all of their computers OS X bootable only. This means that they will not be able to boot into OS 9. For those of you not ready or unwilling to commit to OS X but considering new computers you will probably wish to purchase a computer (or 2) before this permanent change occurs.

As Apple is forging ahead with OS X, they are making the radical but realistically necessary move to drop OS 9 booting. These new models will still be able to run classic (OS 9 from within OS X). This is not the same as booting from and running OS 9 natively though.

If you are happy with your computers then you may not need to do anything, but just be aware that any new Macs purchased from 2003 will be strictly OS X only. Purchasing a Mac now, gives you both a new, fast model and the ability to boot from either OS 9 and OS X. Just something to consider.

As I have also advised recently, if you haven't fiddled with OS X, now might be a good time to check it out. Because if you need a new Mac next year and find that OS X isn't suitable for your business then you may be in trouble and limited to buying a 2nd hand Mac to be able to boot into OS 9 ... and I predict that 2nd hand OS 9 bootable Macs will be in short supply for a few months into 2003. Especially newer models.

11 Dec 02 Update

Big reminder to everyone who is considering a Mac purchase.

New Macintosh computers from Jan 2003 will not boot into OS 9.

I repeat, New Macintosh computers from Jan 2003 will not boot into OS 9.

Apple has sounded the dirge for OS 9. From Jan 2003 new Macs will only boot into OS X. You will be able to run classic mode from with OS X but you will not be able to boot directly into OS 9.

Now if you aren't considering a new Mac or if you are happy to buy 2nd hand then this wont really concern you.

But you should also be aware that in a few months time there will be 2nd hand Macs on the market that wont boot into OS 9. Caveat Emptor. That's Latin for, let the buyer beware. I've been wanting to say that for a long time. Now I feel better.

If you want to get a Mac you have around 2 weeks to act, although most likely dealers/Apple will have stock of old models until some time in Jan 2003.

Anyway, you cant say that I didn't warn you ...

17 Dec 02 Update

Apple appear to be doing a limited delaying of the OS 9 deadline to June 2003 for some education models and for the top end G4DP 1.25GHz system.

I am waiting for local (Australian) confirmation of this announcement and whether this model will also be available for sale into Australia.

How does this announcement effect the graphics industry (and most of my clients)? Not much. Business clients cant buy education Mac's and it is a rare day indeed that I sell the $6,632 G4 instead of the $3,450 G4. Just not good value in my opinion.

Apple will apparently retain this single G4 model until June 2003 (or until they change their mind again). Unknown at this stage whether this will be a specific model that has to be ordered specially. Whether they are changing the hardware specs on this G4 is also unknown (as is the price).

As soon as I have official Apple Australia confirmation one way or the other, I will let you know.
More information to follow after Mac World Jan 2003 and the plethora (I've always wanted to use that) new model / software updates that will happen then.

21 Mar 03 Update

As of this date the only Macs bootable into OS 9 are :

eMac, iBook, 15" G4 Powerbooks

OS X bootable only Macs are :

G4 desktop, G4 iMac, 12" & 17" G4 Powerbook