Apple Opens Window For XP
Apple Opens Window For XP
April 6th, 2006: Going against tradition, Apple has released software to enable Windows XP to run on its latest Mac’s alongside OS X, sparking new interest from consumers and business users alike.
Called Boot Camp, the software enables Windows XP to be installed and booted on newer Intel processor equipped Macs such as the Mac Mini and MacBook Pro.
Through a graphical user interface (GUI), Boot Camp provides the tools and a step-by-step guide to dynamically create a second partition on the hard drive for Windows, then burn a CD with all the necessary Windows drivers, and install Windows from a Windows XP installation CD. When the installation is complete OS X or Windows XP can be selected on system start up.
Currently in beta release, Boot Camp is available as a free download from Apple’s site and is expected to woo many PC users who are interested in Macs but don’t want to leave their Windows comfort zone.
Despite Boot Camp’s abilities, Apple says it has no intention of selling or supporting Windows XP on its systems. In an online statement, Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide product marketing, Philip Schiller says: “Apple has no desire or plan to sell or support Windows, but many customers have expressed their interest to run Windows on Apple's superior hardware now that we use Intel processors.”
Advanced users have been able to run Windows XP and PC software on their Macs for a while now thanks to some sophisticated software hacking and emulation such as Microsofts Virtual PC. However, the recent switch to Intel processors and now some under-the-table support from Apple means unheard of flexibility for Mac users, and a boost to its appeal and share price in one swoop.
Will WinXP support make you go for a Mac?
Related Article: