Considering Apple Computers only has about 3% of the global computer market, it punches way above its weight. Fresh from its triumphant switch to Intel for its processors, Apple is collaborating with Nokia to develop a Web browser for the phone-maker’s range of Internet-enabled smartphones, launched this week in Helsinki.
In two weeks Apple CEO Steve Jobs has re-inforced the brand — riding high on the back of its runaway iPod sales — with the two market-dominating companies in computing and cellular communications.
Apple’s switch from IBM to Intel chips is viewed at increasing Apple’s market share (by reassuring consumers that having the dominant processor makes them a more attractive purchase), providing low-power processors for Apple’s laptops and ultimately opening up Apple software to be licensed by other computer manufacturers.
Nokia is working with Apple to develop an open-source browser, using components from its Safari browser, according to reports.
Unlike Microsoft, which has perennial security issues, Apple’s only bad press has been leaks about its upcoming innovations and, occasionally, battery problems with some of its iPods. Each new iteration of Apple’s robust OS X operating system is met with enthusiasm from fans, who will tell anyone who listens that viruses don’t affect Macintoshes. Even Intel CE Paul Otellini says Macs are safer.
Apple has just launched its third OS X upgrade, called Tiger, which features the powerful Spotlight tool for finding files on its hard drive.