Apple: Leopard Will Ship on Time
It seems as if Apple is determined to not take a similar route as Windows Vista with its next-generation operating system, code-named "Leopard."
The company took the unusual step on Friday of responding directly to speculation by the Taiwan technology publication DigiTimes that its newest operating system was delayed, saying it was on track to deliver Leopard in the spring.
Normally, Apple declines to comment on speculation surrounding its products. However, it told JupiterResearch analyst Michael Gartenberg Friday that DigiTimes' report was incorrect.
"The rumor mill is wrong again," Gartenberg mused. The paper had claimed the delay was caused by a desire by Apple to enhance the dual-boot support within Mac OS X. However, the publication has often been wrong in speculating about the Cupertino company's future moves.
American Technology Research analyst Shaw Wu also downplayed the report, saying his checks showed that Leopard was nearing completion, and should be released in the spring, or during the company's June quarter.
"Our sources indicate that Apple's latest beta build has made noticeable improvements in stability and functionality from previous builds, and that Apple is likely one or two upcoming builds away from reaching 'final candidate' stage to be released for manufacturing," AppleInsider reported him as saying.
Wu expressed concern however on the so-called "top secret" features within Leopard, saying the company should soon publish them so they could be adequately beta tested before release.