In Apple's latest big announcement, they are giving their iWork software and OS away for free. This may seem like crazy talk, but after looking at where Apple makes most of their money, it makes sense. What does this mean for Web Development?

Free is a Good Price

Previously, people chose the software and computer they worked on based on cost. For large companies, windows machines were cheaper when bought in bulk and easier to alter to a user's specifications with a bigger hard drive or more powerful processor.

Now that Apple products are less expensive given the software price is no longer a factor, it might make companies rethink their strategies. Switching seems like a big burden to bear and would be too much of a hassle, but Apple now integrates with Microsoft products, making the issue nonexistent.

Why is the software free?  Eric Limer on Gizmodo states it perfectly:

"it's just Apple's latest push on a core ideal: a great, consistent world for its users to live in. A world that's Apples to Apples. And inside that world, everybody wins."

Web browsers

All of the most popular browsers, represented by the graph below, are very capable of running complicated websites. A programmer does not have to be as careful when designing a new page to make sure it caters to the needs of each browser. The only browsers that are difficult to work with are older versions but graceful degradation, a way to alter software so that it functions on different versions of software, handles this problem effectively.

Apple supports the most popular browsers so developers won't have to switch to a new platform or worry about compatibility issues with their programs if they previously used Windows. With more people using the most updated version of their web browser of choice, you can expect to see higher quality web development as companies can use better techniques and tools that don't need to operate on older browsers.

Technology Trends

While corporate America has a lot of catching up to do and any changes will take years to be fully implemented, there are trends developing.

The old way of using Windows and getting a PC for both business and personal use solely for compatibility is no longer a problem. Apple has altered its software to be compatible with Microsoft Office. Apple is thinking ahead and planning financially for the future and not necessarily just tomorrow's bottom line.

"By the time iOS and OSX come together, upgrade cycles and payment schemes aren't going to be something you have to think about any more. There will just be a suite of devices, some big, some small, some with keyboards, some without, and they'll all work together, play together, and upgrade together. For free."

Summary

There world where the majority used Windows for software compatibility reasons doesn't exist anymore. Now anyone can have access to the latest versions for free and ensure a level playing field that minimalizes compatibility issues.

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