Well as rumours of a new G5 iMac solidfy, thanks to Apple confirming that they will ship in September. An interesting move not to pissoff consumers who want something now, but can’t get one easily. Whilst also not annoying the segment of buyers who would get upset when hearing of the G5 iMac. I don’t know if Apple are going to make a habit of this, since the main reason it would seem is because IBM can’t make G5 chips fast enough. Hence the reason for G4 iMac stock shortages. Some people are even claiming the other reason may have been that July was the target date for the new iMacs and the production lines for the old iMacs had already been converted.
Another opinion piece on Business Week I saw last week outlined six steps that Apple should take in order to increase market share. I personally think with the current XPC trend that is gripping the PC market. Apple should revive the Cube, which would address some of points made in the plan. Now it does not need to be a G5, however it would seem that now Apple are bringing G5 iMacs out it may have to be. Or maybe not, perhaps there is a market segment in the $750 arena a G4 cube could fit into. It would definately appeal to Switchers who have already invested in an LCD screen. Though at the same time I could see demand issues, since Apple’s other lines are so very attractive. I think Powerbooks seem to find themselves in the hands of the more geeky switchers any way. I know this because I know many people who fit into this bracket, as I do as well.
I just hope whatever happens that relations with IBM don’t deteriate and that IBM can deliver. I want a 15″ G5 Powerbook this time next year.
Updated : Well I wrote this a couple of days ago but never posted it because I got distracted with some real work.
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