Apple Vs. Adobe
You’ve probably heard that Apple has sent a giant “F- YOU” to Adobe by specifically prohibiting any developer to ever use anything but Apple’s proprietary XCode IDE to create iPhone applications. This rule was obviously created to screw over Adobe, who has been working on a way to cross compile a Flash/AIR application for the iPhone.
In doing so, Apple has strengthened its iron grip on the iPhone platform, but I think that might be the beginning of their undoing. Imagine this chain of events:
1. Apple says “NO ADOBE!”
2. Adobe says “Fine. NO APPLE!” and pulls its Creative Suite for Mac. Maybe they’ll partner with Microsoft and throw in a free copy of Windows 7 with the purchase of CS5 (at $1500, I’m sure they can afford to bundle Windows)
3. Graphic designers everywhere (Mac’s primary customers) flock to Windows.
4. The graphic designers realize that their Mac is now a PC, and next time they have to replace it they might as well just get a PC (which is about 600 bucks cheaper)
5. The Mac brand shrivels and dies. Now all Apple has left is iPhone and their music business (iPod/iTunes)
6. In an ironic twist, Apple’s very own lock-in policies cause the downfall of iPhone – nobody has a Mac anymore, so nobody can develop for iPhone anymore (since you need a Mac to do so).
7. Now Apple is only a music seller and PMP purveyor. This violates their agreement with Apple Corps Records, who sues them into oblivion.
I’m betting if Adobe is willing to play hardball, Apple will loosen their grip. I’m looking forward to the drama.