One Computer - Multiple Operating Systems
Imagine, one lowly laptop housing multiple operating systems. That’s what I see is the promise of Apple’s new Boot Camp beta software which allows one to run Windows on an Intel-based Macintosh. I currently use VirtualPC to test web sites, but to have a true fully operational Windows machine working within and alongside my Macintosh OS just adds additional value to my investment.
Some pundits are complaining that having to reboot between systems makes this all a waste of time. But this is early beta software and it works (by many accounts) impressively well for what it is. I think we’re getting a taste of what Apple has in store for us in OS X 10.5 (Leopard). Imagine, as others have said, the concept of running Windows within OS X (along with perhaps, Linux) just like we’ve done for the last 5 years with Classic (OS 9).
We know Bill Gates is thrilled at the opportunity to be selling more full-priced copies of Windows. And for all we know this was part of the renewed deal recently made between Apple and Microsoft. But more importantly for an interactive designer like myself, to have every major operating system available for client work and in one lightweight laptop will certainly be a dream come true!