The real reason Apple is switching to Intel

Here’s a scenario that I’m sure people at Apple have pondered. What happens when Linux improves their GUI and ease of use to the point where it’s as easy to use and install as Window’s or a Mac?

When this happens, (and it will happen) Apple will have two serious competitors running on Intel and Apple will on PPC. With two serious competitors on Intel, and Apple on PPC, Apple will lose. Not because OS X wouldn’t rule, but I think the public, business leaders and hardware manufacturers will have even more reason to standardize on Intel hardware.

Everyone will buy their PCs from Dell, Lenovo, or Wal-Mart and install Windows, Linux or both. Developers will follow since they can buy one PC and develop for two platforms.

It would be pretty tough for Apple to convince people to buy a PPC when an Intel machine has more options even if those options aren’t as good as OS X.

Apple is also ensuring their OS can run on a generic Intel PC motherboard. If they ever get out of the hardware business, they can easily bundle OS X with a Dell, or other generic PC without any disruption. Their OS will already be rock solid on Intel if that day ever comes.