Re: "The Apple II is DEAD" - Long Live the Apple II

[David A Lyons <dlyons@apple.com>]

In article <2d2le3$68t@news.ysu.edu> Eric S. Ford, ag471@yfn.ysu.edu
writes:
> Perhaps it's only "doom-smithing", but the computer industry strongly
> resembles the Video Recorder industry situation of the early and mid
80's
> with Apple (in particular the Mac) playing the role of the Sony BetaMax
> and MS-DOS that of the VHS.  Sony did not perish, but they now sell VHS
> and I can easily perceive the same transition occurring with Apple,
> particularly with their Power-PC line.  Is this an apt analogy?  I think
> it comes close.  Apple systems and software have all but disappeared
from
> the shelves of retail stores.  In the end it will be the consumers who
> suffer because we will end up with fewer choices and even those will be
> cosmetic (small differences in packaging).  The computer revolution gave
> us rapid growth in capability because of the competition, innovation and
> diversity.  No one expected that to continue forever, but it sure was
good
> while it lasted!  

VHS vs. BetaMax is a difference in packaging only:  The content, recorded
programs, is the same (except for a small difference in picture quality?).

The Macintosh user experience is substantially different from the
other-GUIs experience.  There are enough similarities on the *surface*
that marketers try to convince customers that Macintosh has no advantage.

I don't forsee a BetaMax-style convergence, and I'm certainly not ready
to write off innovation.

As for Apple systems and software on retail shelves?  I can walk into
Sears or Price Club and buy a Macintosh.  Or CompUSA for software.  Or
Fry's Electronics for systems or software.  But I usually prefer
mail-order (saves time, and it's easier to park).

Dave Lyons, dlyons@apple.com
Mr Tangent

My opinions are my own, not Apple's.