Apple and Microsoft Celebrate One-Year Anniversary of Strategic Alliance at MacWorld Expo New York

Strategic Insights -

In a marked shift in their long-standing competitive relationship, Apple Computer Inc. and Microsoft Corp. have been making significant strides in cooperation, leading to unprecedented success in their joint endeavors. The partnership, unveiled at MacWorld Expo Boston last year, has resulted in notable advancements, including the integration of Microsoft Internet Explorer in Apple's new iMac and Mac OS 8.1, and the launch of Microsoft Office 98 Macintosh Edition. This collaboration has contributed to the renewed vitality of the Macintosh platform.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft Office 98 Macintosh Edition, launched in January, has seen a 36 percent increase in sales compared to its predecessor, outshipping it in comparable quarters.
  • Integration of Microsoft Internet Explorer in Apple's new iMac and Mac OS 8.1 has led to a 28 percentage point increase in Internet Explorer users on the Macintosh platform since the companies began collaborating.
  • A single Java virtual machine (VM) for Mac OS has been announced, with plans to converge Apple's Mac OS Runtime for Java (MRJ) and Microsoft technologies for Java.
  • Apple and Microsoft announced a joint promotion enabling every Apple iMac customer in the United States to receive a $100 rebate when they license Microsoft Office 98 Macintosh Edition.
  • The partnership between Apple and Microsoft has led to the development of new products and technologies, including Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.01 and Outlook Express 4.01, which will come with the iMac.
  • The agreement has brought about a renewed sense of cooperation between the two companies, with Steve Jobs stating that the partnership has "delivered some really great products to our joint customers."
  • The collaboration has also led to increased customer support for Microsoft Office 98 Macintosh Edition, with Apple's Tim Bajarin stating that the partnership has been a key factor in Apple's comeback and successful product introductions.

Statistics:

  • 28 percentage point increase in Internet Explorer users on the Macintosh platform since the companies began collaborating.
  • 36 percent increase in sales of Microsoft Office 98 Macintosh Edition compared to its predecessor.
  • August 15, 1998, to December 31, 1998, promotion offering a $100 rebate to Apple iMac customers when they license Microsoft Office 98 Macintosh Edition.

Sources:

  • Microsoft Corp.
  • Apple Computer, Inc.
  • Creative Strategies Inc.
  • PRNewswire