Apple Computer Inc is embarking on an accelerated software development programme in order to differentiate the PowerBook operating system from the desktop version of Macintosh System. And according to reports in MacWeek, the already over-burdened AppleSoft division can’t meet the schedules the PowerBook group requires. According to the magazine, the solution is to bundle AppleSoft utilities and extensions, along with software from third parties. The first step, in mid-May, will come with the launch of the new 68040 PowerBook. The PowerBook 500 series, the Duo 280 and the Duo 280c will come bundled with the Apple Remote Access 2.0 Client and MacCheck, the consumer version of the company’s hardware diagnostics utility. Other bundled programs will include PowerBook File Assistant, a file reconciliation program; an application launcher; PC Exchange; HyperCard Player 2.2; and file translators from DataViz Inc. Two new utilities will be bundled: Control Strip – a mini-control-panel that sits off-screen and is pulled in by a tab – and an unnamed diary program. Then, in the second half of this year, Apple is expected gradually to add new features to PowerBook software. Phase 2 PCMCIA support, which will allow the 500 series PowerBooks to support more advanced PCMCIA cards, is expected in September; Apple will also start bundling PowerTalk with its portables. In the first half of next year, according to MacWeek, Apple will add infra-red transceivers and video-in to some models. The company is also looking to add speech recognition and its high-speed SCSI standard, code-named FireWire, to the PowerBook.
