Originally posted by MacLuv
D'OH, sorry ccuilla, we obviously were posting at the same time... totally!
No problem dude. Worth it just to hear rumors of a new Larry-boy (oops) software venture. Would be interested in hearing more (if there is more). Though, truthfully...the second time around for a lot of these guys is usually a failure. Often the first time was a "right place, right time" kind of thing.
Using that as a segue back to Apple...what is interesting to me is that Steve's second try (NeXT) was a failure and a success of sorts. NeXT was soooo right about soooo many things. Hardware and software wise. We're just beginning to see some of what they were doing. Of course it was a failure business-wise.
Now Steve's third try (Apple-reign II) seems to be going along well. Present circumstances being viewed for what they are...short-term troubles in a deeply troubled technology economy.
I think Steve (and his team) have turned Appled into a completely new company. Some will argue "better" others "worse". The best I gather though, not matter what SOMETHING had to change. To stay as Apple was, was certain doom. Whether they have changed into something that will bring greater revenue and (more importantly) profit growth remains to be seen.
If I were thinking about Apple's short-term prospects (3-9 months)...getting closer to the original topic here...I'd say...well...uhhh...errr...not so great. But longer term, I think they look good. In fact, the tighter Microsoft tightens its grip, the more appealing Apple begins to look in some circles.
But beyond just competition in the computer space, I look to Apple to expand their product portfolio much like they have done with iPod...in new directions. This is wise. Looking at any great, largely successful company, particularly the "blue chip" firms. Sweeping product portfolios. Apple is simply in a position where they need to do this more slowly and carefully right now.
Oh well...babbling on again. Time to get the kids to bed.
