Why did Apple release a Windows version of Safari? We've all been asking, and I guess that rounds up some of the best theories. (Robert Cringley's idea that AT&T wants it is pretty choice in a convergence-bending alter-universe kinda way.)
Mossberg also stated the whole trojan horse theory about iTunes just a couple of days before Safari for Windows was announced, and I sorta' agree: Apple knows better than anyone the significance of aesthetics and interface in determining who uses what software and hardware. I think this Safari move is deceptively simple and actually pretty effin' smart.
posted by Nav at 12:04 AM on June 16, 2007 
I guess I disagree. In five years, they'll be up to a 5%, and all of those people will already be Mac users. (How can I say this? Cuz Firefox is stuck at 15%, and that's who it will be fighting for audience with.)
posted by Rex at 1:40 AM on June 16, 2007
Occam's razor: releasing Safari on Windows is the quickest, easiest way to get traditional Windows based webdevs to write iPhone apps. It's no coincidence that the lame iPhone webapp "SDK" was announced at the same time that Safari for Windows was. Not the most original thought in the world, but there you have it; all of the other Machiavellian scheming just doesn't make any sense.
Apple now has two and a half hardware devices (iPod, iPhone and Apple TV) that are generating significant revenues in their own right. With iTunes and now Safari, you the consumer can buy in to the Apple lifestyle, no Mac required. Whether this creates a "halo" effect that equates to more Macs sales is beside the point.
posted by Jim Ray at 6:58 PM on June 17, 2007
Wait, Safari apps that only work... only on Safari? Or general web apps?
posted by Rex at 8:42 PM on June 17, 2007
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