Where's Apple's Online Mac Software Store? (MSFT, AAPL)
One reason: Citing the rising popularity of cheap "netbooks" -- some of which don't have DVD drives -- Microsoft is offering electronic software delivery. Instead of waiting for discs in the mail, you just download and go.
(Microsoft is doing it smart, too: Get a new computer or need a fresh install, and Microsoft will let you re-download the software until support ends, typically a 5-year window.)
So Apple, where's your online Mac software store? The sexy MacBook Air doesn't ship with a built-in DVD drive and would be a perfect candidate for over-their-air software downloads.
Apple has obviously figured out Internet software delivery for its iPhones and iPods. Yet Apple only sells its Mac software -- Final Cut, Garage Band jam packs, iWork, Aperture, OS X, etc. -- on discs.
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With Apple however, the Geniuses at the Apple Stores help educated customers about what types of software they need or could want. A website is not going to replace the friendly in-person rapport.
Also, the MacBook Air comes pre-installed with nearly all the applications a typical MBA customer would need. If they needed higher end programs like Final Cut, Aperture, etc., they would opt for a MacBookPro which includes an optical drive.
All that being said, I would love there to be an Online Mac Software Store or at least an extension of iTunes that enables software distribution.
; )
But, don't ignore this: http://store.apple.com/us/product/MB624Z/A
http://www.apple.com/downloads/
BTW.... it's been there for years.
Just a LITTLE BIT of research Eric would have kept you from looking like a total shill for MS.
Eric....
your assertion that iWork and other apps can only be purchased on disks is again, false. iWork and other apps can be downloaded, and purchased from the link above.
Again. Just a LITTLE BIT of research before publication would not make you look so, well, silly right about now.
Microsoft is 10 years late with their innovation. As usual, nothing new there.
Aperture trial download (http://www.apple.com/iwork/trial/). iWork trial download (http://www.apple.com/iwork/trial/). Final Cut Studio install requirements (http://store.apple.com/us_smb_78313/product/MA886Z/A#overview). Logic Studio install requirements (http://store.apple.com/us_smb_78313/product/MA797LL/A#overview). GarageBand Jam Pack Symphony Orchestra install requirements (http://store.apple.com/us/product/MA319Z/A#overview). Adobe Creative Suite buying guide (http://store.apple.com/us_smb_78313/browse/campaigns/adobe/cs4_buying_guide). Apple Store shipping and delivery options (http://store.apple.com/us/help/shipping_delivery).
I don't see anywhere in the blogs or press releases where M$ is claiming that they are "innovating" or first to market with their downloadable software. It just gives customers choice between buying direct from them or still usign retailers.
There are obvious adv to buying downloadable software so let's at least give credit to microsoft for that. They aren't doing any harm to the customers by opening this online store.