Watching Apple contains summaries of news from Apple Computer, Inc. For complete information on each topic, see the URLs given. This month's topics are:

 
                   1. Apple Delivers Developer Release of Rhapsody

 
                   2. Apple Workgroup Servers Clear Winners

 
                   3. Apple Launches Power of 10 Program

 
                   4. Apple's New MessagePad 2100

 
                   5. Mac Games Developers Launch 1997 Holiday
                        Promotion

 
                   6. Apple Extends Rebate to Power Macintosh 6500 Series

 
                   7. CompUSA Joins the Apple Retail Market

 

 
                      Apple Delivers Developer Release of Rhapsody

Apple Computer, Inc. shipped on 13 October 1997 an early version of its next-generation operating system, codenamed Rhapsody, to more than 10,000 software developers worldwide. The Rhapsody Developer Release is intended to allow software developers to begin creating the applications that will run on the new operating system. 

Apple expects Rhapsody to complement the MacOS in the company's overall operating system strategy. The MacOS will move forward as Apple's volume operating system, delivering market leading ease-of-use, multimedia and internet integration, while Rhapsody will be initially targeted at server and high-end desktop applications. Rhapsody aims to integrate MacOS ease-of-use and functionality with the market-leading technologies pioneered by NeXT Software Inc. in OPENSTEP.

The Developer Releases of Rhapsody are the first stage in Apple's delivery schedule for the new operating system, with customer releases planned in 1998. For full details on Apple's operating system strategy, visit Apple's operating system web page at http://www.macos.apple.com/.

 
                      Apple Workgroup Servers Clear Winners

Apple Computer, Inc., revealed on 22 October 1997 that its workgroup servers offer a considerable advantage in overall cost-of-ownership, ease-of-use and maintenance for customers in small business or workgroups. This is according to a study released by the Business Research Group (BRG, Newton, Mass). Unlike previous studies of web server ease-of-implementation and cost-of-ownership, this study examined the medium-size business market (100 - 499 employees), and in workgroups (150 or fewer employees) within larger enterprises (500 or more employees). 

Apple web servers provide a significantly lower total cost-of-ownership 
than the competing servers based on the following factors: lower initial 
costs; lower installation costs; lower content creation costs per page; 
lower total outside services costs; lower server management costs; and lower peer training and online help costs. These advantages led to a cumulative Apple server cost advantage over the other servers considered in the study, as high as 300 percent per internal user, 144 percent per server 
and 158 percent per web page.

Initial System's price
Per server, Apple users spent 205 percent less than Netscape, 93 percent less than O'Reilly and 66 percent less than Microsoft.

Installation costs
Overall, Apple and O'Reilly both have a 72 percent cost advantage relative to Netscape and a 37 percent cost advantage relative to Microsoft.

Outside Services Costs
Apple's cost advantage in this area ranged from 102 percent to 151 percent less than the competition. In general, these costs consisted of expenses incurred for training and installation/systems integration.

Apple customers gave Apple's web servers higher overall approval ratings in the following two areas: ease-of-implementation (as evidenced by simplicity of hardware setup and software installation) and ease-of-management. For the server environments that fall within the scope of the study, Apple's web server sites are the largest, exhibiting the following characteristics: more web pages, more internal users, more servers and the second largest number of hits per day.

Results of the study have been compiled into a whitepaper and can be accessed on the world wide web at http://applenet.apple.com/text/server_study.html. 

                       Apple Launches Power of 10 Program

Apple Computer, Inc. on 28 October 1997 announced its most significant investment in education in recent years with its Power of 10 program. Encouraging communities to "earn together and learn together," Apple will credit 10 percent of the pre-tax purchase price of each computer purchased directly through Apple's Power of 10 program to any public or private non-profit K-12 school in the U.S. as specified by the purchaser. All funds designated to each registered school can be used by that school to acquire new products on Apple's education price list, software solutions or staff development programs.

Promoting the program at the local level is essential to its success, as there is no limit to how much a school can receive in funding, as designated by purchases. After the promotion ends on 31 January 1998, school administrators will be notified of the total dollar amount designated for their school, and will have until 1 June 1998 to allocate the funds toward new Apple products, software solutions and/or staff development programs.

Effective immediately, parents, educators, friends, business partners and general well-wishers can call 1-800-769-6310 to purchase products available through the Power of 10 promotion. The purchaser will receive a coupon with the product that allows them to designate any registered public or private non-profit K-12 (elementary and secondary) school in the United States to be credited with the dollars representing 10 percent of the pre-tax price of their purchase.

Apple has also considered the cost for the consumer. To ensure that parents and friends in all income brackets have the opportunity to participate in the Power of 10 program, Apple has created a special computer loan as part of the Power of 10 promotion. From now until 31 January 1998, Apple is offering a unique computer loan to qualifying parents and friends who would like to participate in the Power of 10 program. With a first-year introductory rate, the Apple Computer Loan is a low-interest rate loan with a 5-year term and no prepayment penalty. Any Power of 10 qualifying purchase over U.S. $1000 is eligible for the special promotion rates. Those interested in the Power of 10 Apple Computer Loan can call 1-800-769-6310 and ask to speak to a representative about the special loan program.

The ten "power tools" available for purchase through the Power of 10 promotion include one model from the following Apple product lines:

- Power Macintosh 4400/200
- Power Macintosh 5400/180
- Power Macintosh 5500/225
- Power Macintosh 6500/250
- Power Macintosh 6500/300
- Power Macintosh 8600/300
- PowerBook 1400c/133
- eMate 300
- Multiple Scan 15AV Display
- Multiple Scan 1705 Display

Product photos, prices and specifications can be viewed at the Power of 10 website http://www.apple.com/power10 or requests for such information can be made by calling the program hotline at 1-800-769-6310. 

 
                      Apple's New MessagePad 2100

Apple Computer, Inc. announced on 20 October 1997 the MessagePad 2100, which will be available in November. The newest member of the Apple MessagePad family, the MessagePad 2100 offers hardware and software features that enhance performance and communications, including additional system memory and upgrades to several of its bundled software programs. To support current MessagePad 2000 owners, Apple will offer an upgrade program that brings the same DRAM memory of the new MessagePad 2100 to its predecessor.

The MessagePad was designed to suit mobile user needs, with a focus on processing speed, an easy-to-read screen and an optional functional keyboard. Built around the powerful Digital StrongARM SA-110 processor, the MessagePad 2100 is one of the fastest handheld computers on the market. The mobile computer's 16-level grayscale screen is both larger and clearer than those found on most competitive handheld computers. Unlike the tiny keyboards found on many handheld devices, the MessagePad's optional keyboard supports touch-typing.

Designed with additional memory, the MessagePad 2100 has 4 MB of DRAM, which is 3MB more than its predecessor, the MessagePad 2000. The expanded system memory allows the MessagePad 2100 to run more applications simultaneously, permitting users to work more efficiently. The upgraded memory and communications software are expected to be especially useful for customers who tend to use large applications, who like to work on their MessagePads with a variety of applications open at one time, or who use communications applications such as Internet email or web browsing.

The latest generation of the MessagePad also includes version 3.2 of AllPen Software's NetHopper graphical web browser. The new version provides proxy support, enabling users behind a corporate security firewall to access the Internet. The software also supports authentication, enabling users to access sites requiring a password, such as news and travel websites, and the ability to download Newton packages over the web, such as system updates and applications.

The MessagePad 2100 comes bundled with the latest version of Newton Internet Enabler (NIE 2.0), Apple's TCP/IP software that provides Internet/intranet connections. NIE 2.0 benefits corporate users by providing a direct connection to both Ethernet and AppleTalk networks, as well as support for PAP and CHAP authentication when using a modem (not included) to connect with an Internet Service Provider. In addition to being bundled with the MessagePad 2100 and the MessagePad 2000 upgrade, NIE 2.0 is immediately available from Apple's website at http://www.newton.apple.com/. NIE 2.0 is also compatible with other MessagePad devices and with the eMate 300. 

To participate in the MessagePad 2000 upgrade program, which is available until April 30, 1998 (or while supplies last), MessagePad 2000 owners will send their units to the Apple Service Center. Along with the service and upgrades, participants will also receive a copy of Newton Press 1.1 and, while supplies last, a 2MB flash memory card. For customers who purchased a MessagePad 2000 prior to 7 November, the upgrade will be offered for U.S. $99.00. For customers purchasing the MessagePad 2000 after that date, the price will be U.S. $199. Shipping and local taxes are not included and will be added to all listed prices. The upgrade is intended to be completed within two to five working days after the MessagePad 2000 to be upgraded is received by the Apple Service Center. 

The MessagePad 2100 will be available in English and German versions worldwide in November. The estimated retail price of the MessagePad 2100 will be around $1,000 in the United States, including a word processor, email package, web browser and spreadsheet applications. Additional information on the MessagePad product line can be found by visiting the Newton website located at http://www.newton.apple.com/ or by calling 1-800-909-0260. Information regarding the MessagePad 2000 upgrade program can be found by calling 1-800-500-7078.

 
                      Mac Games Developers Launch 1997 Holiday Promotion

The Macintosh Entertainment Software Alliance (MESA), announced on 31 October 1997 the most aggressive promotional and merchandising initiatives ever made available for Macintosh games. Working together with Apple Computer, Inc., MESA members aim to create greater visibility for the top games available for the Macintosh computer. For two months, beginning Saturday, Nov. 1, 1997, the games developers are offering a "Buy Two, Get a Free Mac Game by Mail" promotion in conjunction with computer resellers throughout North America. In addition, MESA is working with retailers such as CompUSA, Computer City, Best Buy and Micro Center on extensive advertising, direct mail and in-store merchandising.

"There has never been a better time to buy games for the Macintosh computer," said Peter Tamte, president of MESA and executive director of MacSoft. "Most of the best games are now available on the Mac, and these advertising, merchandising and promotional initiatives should help expose consumers to the variety and quality of entertainment titles available."

With the "Buy Two, Get a Free Mac Game" offer, consumers buy two games from the participating software companies and receive a coupon, to be redeemed by mail, for a third game at no charge. Consumers will choose the free game from a separate list of products. 

The ten games featured in the "Buy Two" component of the 1997 Apple/MESA Holiday Retail Promotion include Myth from Bungie Software Products; Starfleet Academy from Interplay Productions; Diablo from CUC/Blizzard; FA-18 Hornet 3.0 from Graphic Simulations; Duke Nukem 3D from 3D Realms; Quake from Id Software; Civilization II and Master of Orion II from Microprose; Shadow Warrior from 3D Realms; and Jack Nicklaus 4 from Accolade.

Most resellers will offer the following titles for the third free game: Marathon 2 from Bungie Software Products; Hornet Classic from Graphic Simulations; 3D Ultra Pinball: Creep Night from CUC/Blizzard; Descent II from Interplay Productions; Welcome to the Future from Broderbund; Even More Incredible Toon Machine GT from Sierra; and Diamonds 3D, Terminal Velocity, Solitaire Game Pack, and Mac Arcade Pak from MacSoft. Computer City customers will choose the third, free game from among the following titles: Marathon 2 from Bungie Software Products; Hornet Classic from Graphic Simulations; 3D Ultra Pinball: Creep Night from CUC/Blizzard; Descent II from Interplay Productions; Welcome to the Future from Broderbund; Even More Incredible Toon Machine GT from Sierra; Prime Target, Terminal Velocity and Absolute Solitaire from MacSoft; and Arcade Battles from Laser Soft.

MESA was formed in May, 1997. By creating the alliance, members have enjoyed greater success in working with mail-order catalogs and retailers to market and promote entertainment titles. In addition, the unified approach of the MESA members has fostered a more effective working relationship among the developers and Apple, which has underwritten some of the marketing initiatives.

"We love games," said Steve Jobs, Apple's interim CEO, "and we are going to work with Mac games developers to make sure our customers have the best games on the Mac."

 
                      Apple Extends Rebate to Power Macintosh 6500 Series

The Add-on Take-off promotion offers customers who purchase selected 
portable, desktop, and peripheral products between 11 October and 16 January 1998, a variety of benefits. Including cash back to customers who purchase selected systems when paired with any Apple monitor. By adding on to the system purchase, the customer takes off additional savings on each item. 6500 systems purchased after 31 October 1997 are eligible for the rebates.

Power Macintosh 6500/225
M5611LL/A

$50
Power Macintosh 6500/250
M5612LL/A

$200
Power Macintosh 6500/250
M5648LL/A

$200
Power Macintosh 6500/250
M6189LL/A

$200
Power Macintosh 6500/275
M6191LL/A

$200
Power Macintosh 6500/275
M6190LL/A

$200
Power Macintosh 6500/275
M5854LL/A

$200
Power Macintosh 6500/300
M6079LL/A

$200
Power Macintosh 6500/300
M6192LL/A

$200

The Add-on Take-off promotion is open to customers in the United States only. The offer is made only to customers who purchase from an Apple authorized dealer or direct from Apple. For complete terms and details, visit http://www.apple.com/promo/ or call 1-800-IMAGE96. K-12 customers are not eligible for rebates included in this promotion and should refer to the Apple Education website at http://www.education.apple.com for current education pricing and promotions. 

 
                      CompUSA Joins the Apple Retail Market

Apple Computer, Inc. and CompUSA, Inc. announced on 4 November 1997 that they are joining forces to launch a new "store within a store" retail format for selling Apple products and technology. CompUSA Computer Superstores will be dedicating significant retail space to Apple computers, software, peripherals and supplies as well as staffing the areas with Apple-trained employees. CompUSA will also be increasing its promotion of Apple products throughout the holiday season.

CompUSA will be outfitting all of its Computer Superstores with dedicated "store within store" environments. The specialized departments will feature displays and merchandising that tie in with Apple's "Think Different" national advertising campaign, resulting in a uniquely appealing and interactive shopping experience. CompUSA will outfit more than 40 locations in key markets prior to the peak holiday selling season and plans to introduce the new environment in its Superstores nationwide within the next three to five months. 

"We believe in the future of Apple, and we are making a large investment to show our recommitment to Apple," said Jim Halpin, president and CEO of CompUSA. "These specialized departments within our Superstores will offer a superior buying experience for the Apple customer."

             Erica J. Marceau
              erica@applewizards.net
              http://members.aol.com/MacSierra/

   

                                          http://www.applewizards.net/