Since the first versions of the Mac OS, Apple has set the standard for the GUI appearance and functionality (most of which were “borrowed” by that other company), and each successive update raises the bar. And now that iPhone has finally been released in the US, Mac fans will be eagerly awaiting the release of Leopard.

I started using a Mac just as System 7 was introduced; at that time, it had many enhancements from the previous system, including virtual memory support, the introduction of aliases and, thankfully, the “Empty Trash” command, which was a change from having the trash empty itself upon shutdown. Subsequent OS updates included an interface and GUI appearance changes, implementation of multi-user support and improved search with Sherlock. Some features introduced with OS 9 were adapted for OS X, like Software Update, Keychain and file encryption.

OS X was a radical change in the user interface, and I think it took a while for people (incluing me) to warm up to it. First, it required that you essentially re-learn how to use your computer: there were all new files (or at least newly visible files) that were in all-new places, a different menu structure and many other interface changes. Then, the developers had to update all their software to be compatible with the new system, which meant you had to make a new investment in, essentially, new software.

But the OS, despite early criticism and bugs, really was a thing of beauty. I waited until Jaguar came out before I started making the gradual switch. I still had to boot up OS 9 on my G4 to run some software I hadn’t updated yet, but gradually I became more comfortable with the new interface and, by the time I got my G5, had updated all my software to be OS X - native.

APC’s article, ‘Ten things you didn’t know about Leopard‘, highlights some interesting features we can look forward to upon its release. A few I’m looking forward to are the enhancements to iCal, since I’ve been using it more and more and never liked the side drawer for managing information; Stacks, which “…[lets] you drag anything, applications or documents into the right-hand side of the dock and you get a stack icon. Depending on the number of items in your stack it will either be displayed as a grid or in an arc. Once you’ve built a stack you can also add to it” and Coverflow, which looks like an adaption of the iTunes Cover Flow View for files, folders and applications. Sweet!

In a twist of irony, I read that Microsoft is claiming Leopard mimicks Vista. Silicon Valley Sleuth wryly notes:

Apple and Microsoft are both in the business of slapping a user interface onto technology – most of which was invented elsewhere. They then squash the competition by bundling those user interfaces with their operating system (just ask Netscape if it is possible to compete with an application that is bundled free of charge).

I suppose that it may always be an open case of who made what first, or which company is truly innovative; I suppose that would depend on which products you trust and purchase.

Either way, I’m looking forward to Leopard’s cool new features.

And, for no particular reason, here’s a nice visual history of Apple’s products, from 1976 - today. Cheers!