Apple Uncages Mac OS X 'Panther'

On Friday evening, Apple uncaged Panther, the next version of its flagship Mac OS X operating system. All in all, Panther introduces over 150 new and redesigned features to the world of Macs.

Stealing thunder from clouds over Redmond, the release arrived several days prior to Monday's public debut of Windows Longhorn at the Microsoft Professional Developers Conference.

Panther brings Mac OS X to version 10.3 - a point release, but major milestone in the operating system's development. Compelling features that reached this threshold include a redesigned Finder, improved file storage and management, fast user switching, better coexistence with Windows, and a new feature called Exposé.

Exposé categorizes all open windows at once and can slide all open windows off the screen for speedy desktop access.

New versions of the Mac's default Safari browser, iCal, Mail and Address Book are also thrown in for good measure.

A new version of iChat graces Mac users with advanced video conferencing support and buddy lists structured into groups; buddy lists were missing in the initial release of the client. iChat 2.0 will be available as a standalone upgrade for users who opt to skip the Panther upgrade.

Panther retails for $129 USD, with a "Family Pack" five-user license available for $199 USD. Existing Power Mac G5 customers can receive a Panther upgrade for $19.95 USD to cover shipping and handling. Both desktop and Mac OS X Server packages launched simultaneously.

During the night of October 24, Apple retails stores and a band of resellers celebrated the "Night of the Panther" by handing out free gifts, savings coupons and even the chance to win a Mac. Apple also recently announced new G4 iBooks, which complement the new operating system.