I wrote about my move from Windows to a Mac Mini a few weeks ago and now is the time to summarise my feelings after five weeks with a new computer, and a new operating system. It is never easy to move to new hardware and software, but I have been surprised at how natural the transition has felt.

Let’s be honest, there are not too many differences between Windows 7 and Mac OS X in terms of day to day usage and both offer a quick and simple experience which can flex around the needs of the user. Where they differ, at least in my experience, are the performance levels over a period of time. I have noticed that the Mac plods along at a consistent rate no matter what I throw at it; there is no drama when updates are required and it just seems to work. My experience with Windows is that continual looking under the bonnet is needed to keep it running smoothly. continue reading »»»

While Macs are ever-popular with students and consumers, enterprises have traditionally been more of an uphill battle for a number of reasons; and government sales pretty much don’t exist. Needham & Co.’s Charlie Wolfe, in a note to clients, broke down the latest market share numbers by category. According to IDC’s latest report for Q2, Mac sales grew 35% compared to the standard market growth rate of 20.9%. Wolfe notes that Mac shipments in government, however, grew an astonishing 200%; sixteen times more than market growth of 12.1%. Enterprise growth was also successful at a 49.8% increase which is over three times higher than the market’s 15.7%. Additionally, Wolfe indicates Apple’s European home market share doubled between Q1 and Q2 thanks to in large part to the iPhone.
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