Apple to Release OS for x86-based Systems?

Apple is readying a new operating system designed to run natively on x86-based machines. However, the OS is still able to perform on Macintosh systems as well. 'Darwin' is said to be a "stripped-down" version of the MacOS X Server, which was first introduced in January 1999. Apple's new Darwin OS may be recognized as an alternative to Microsoft's Windows.

Apple fans are excited by the idea that Apple could use the Darwin design to develop future versions of the MacOS that could run on cost sensitive Intel-based machines, rather than expensive Macintosh hardware. Some discussion groups on the Internet seem to be fueling the idea of making the new Darwin OS an alternative to Microsoft's Windows operating system. It is also rumored that Apple is discussing license ideas with PC-makers.

"Apple has been trying for years to do a MacOS version for Windows, but the old MacOS code was too difficult to port over," said president of LinuxPPC Jeff Carr. The LinuxPPC team is currently developing a version of Linux geared towards Mac-based systems.

MacOS will feature the recently announced 'Aqua' graphical user interface, along with the application-programming interface entitled 'Carbon.' These new features may also be implemented into the Darwin OS.