Will Intel Macs tempt businesses?

New models could compete against Windows

Last week’s launch of a new range of Intel-based Macs brings Apple systems closer in price to Windows PCs and could tempt businesses to switch, according to experts. However, current Microsoft infrastructures could make such a move costly and difficult for many firms.

Apple sprang a surprise at the annual Macworld event in San Francisco, announcing a new range of Intel-based iMac desktops as well as anticipated laptops. Meanwhile, Microsoft pledged future versions of Office for the Mac and said it will focus on cross-platform compatibility with Windows apps.

The two new MacBook Pro models have 15.4in screens and are based on Core Duo mobile chips, introduced by Intel earlier this month. The same chips feature in the new iMac models, which integrate the system inside a 17in or 20in LCD monitor.

Using Intel chips has boosted performance, making the iMacs two to three times as fast as current models, while the MacBook Pro is four times as fast as older PowerBooks, said Apple.

The new models could help Mac OS compete against Windows, according to Paul DeGroot of analyst Directions On Microsoft. “The Mac platform has always been relatively expensive,” he said. “Now Apple is putting itself into the position of price parity with Windows boxes at the higher end.”

Mike Davis of analyst Butler Group, said some mobile staff might be tempted to buy a MacBook rather than a Windows laptop, but predicted Apple would have greater success with Intel-based servers. “If the performance boost translates to servers, Apple’s XServe boxes will seriously outperform low-end kit from Dell,” he added.

However, others expected less corporate interest. Ted Schadler of Forrester Research said he would not advise firms to consider switching to Apple computers. “There just isn’t enough support for business applications on Apple today,” he argued.

DeGroot added that factors such as the need to integrate with Active Directory would count against Apple.