The OS wars between Microsoft and Apple remind me of the car rivalry between Ford and Holden. It's an ever present debate.

When it comes to upgrading which operating systems we use, the web has been buzzing for weeks now with comments and reviews of Microsoft's new operating system, Windows 7.
Discussion has focused on how many variations it will have and what each one will offer.
I personally believe this was a mistake with Vista and will be a mistake now.
Computer users want to switch on, receive email and run word for business, then get them on Trade Me or YouTube for home use.
Most reviews of Windows 7 have been very optimistic. I have not run it myself yet but, I trust some of the reviewers on this subject. However, after the mess that was Windows Vista, it has to be an improvement. It needs to be the best operating system Windows has ever made, and it needs to have lower hardware requirements, which it seems it does.
But Windows has a nemesis. It's called OSX and it's the Apple operating system for their Macintosh computers. It has been gaining ground and moving from its 'creative and educational market” into "business" which has traditionally been Microsoft's domain - even though the initial purchase cost of a Mac is generally higher than a Windows PC. And even though we are in a 'recession”.
Part of the reason for this is that OSX Leopard, the current version is more stable, easier to use and comes in one flavour - all you can eat. I know a few people will argue with my last statement, but it is actually why I prefer to work on a Mac at this time.
This week at WWDC (Apples developer showcase) Apple announced the awaited new version of OSX 10.6: Snow Leopard. Not only does it come in a one size-does-it-all flavour, but it's smaller, faster and designed to increase the beach head into the business market. With better support for people who want to run mixed Windows and OSX workplaces. It does this by working with Microsoft's exchange mail servers, among other things. Apple listened to the criticism of the iPhone, which was also given exchange capability.
Why should Microsoft be worried? It still has a stronghold over the majority of computers in use today but with large corporations stumbling and the future of the industry turning to models we in New Zealand are more familiar with, IT purchase decisions are undergoing change.
Small business buyers want good machines that work and have good style. Enter the iPhone. Likewise, Apple can provide plenty of case studies that show why Macs are great for small businesses.
Vista has been influential in pointing small business buyers towards Apple to satisfy their needs. With all the improvements in Snow Leopard, Microsoft will have to upsell to halt the trend.
There are things about OXS that annoy me. There are some things Windows does better. I will try Windows 7 and look forward to seeing what Vista should have been.