Apple's Flatland Aesthetic, Part 1: The Mac

Article here.

While Tognazzini’s points are valid, it’s essential to note that he doesn’t quite get Apple’s business model, which is sell the platform, not the software.

If you doubt it, simply Google “apple is a hardware company” and you’ll see that I’m not alone in my recollection/supposition/conclusion.

The Macintosh is a platform. The iPhone is a platform. The iPod is a platform. And in each case, they happen to sell content that makes that platform more attractive, but they make their real money on the platform.

iPhoto? Great for the beginner, but Tog’s right: Photoshop for the big stuff. iMovie? Good for the kids and producing a Sunday-afternoon DVD. Go get Final Cut Pro for the “real thing.” Weather on the iPhone? Forget it for anything more than a good idea of what the weather is going to be like tomorrow. iTunes? Well, there’s a whole ‘nother story…

To summarize:

Apple’s not in the business of selling the dope. They’re in the business of selling the addiction.