14.002 6. The Computer Wars Chronicles: ISSUE 67/ Revolution: Change
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This article is from the Apple II Csa2 FAQ, by Jeff Hurlburt with numerous contributions by others.
14.002 6. The Computer Wars Chronicles: ISSUE 67/ Revolution: Change
We have, it seems, reached the situation narrowly averted only
three years ago. Hobbled by inept generalship and beset by swarms
of power-packed IBM clones, the II world is moving to an
inevitable consensus: Apple has lost the 'Mandate of Heaven'; II
leadership is up for grabs. I believe most users would like to
see the company rediscover its hacker/experimenter roots and
become a 'serious player'; it had better. What remains of the
Empire (fat, contented Macsville) is already scheduled for
plundering by hordes of '486-based monsters.
The 'bad news' is that, as the battle over speed, graphics, disk
I/O, and other needed advances heats up; it will, for a time,
become difficult to present software designers with a 'standard
II'. Clones, plug-in upgrades, and third-party motherboards
(along with firmware and operating system mods) will add to the
confusion; some established II suppliers will fold; etc.,
etc.. (It ain't gonna be pretty, Pilgrim.) Indeed, once it
becomes clear what revolutionaries mean by having to "break eggs
to make an omelet", more than a few users are sure to bail out
and head for the relatively peaceful IBM clone realm.
On the positive side, just such a state of flux is most likely to
produce fierce competition, lower prices, increased opportunities
for developers, and significant leaps in performance. One way or
another, you WILL get your upgrade. If all this sounds
interesting-- even, like it might be fun-- then hang on. You have
the 'right stuff' for the II Revolution!
Note: Bill Mensch's semi-informal "IIgs Working Group" plans one or
more meetings this summer. To offer comments, ideas, etc., or to
otherwise 'get involved', contact Andrew Hall at the address listed in
"Vendors".
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