Back at the 64-bit mark. Last friday Apple released it’s latest operating system: Snow Leopard. After dumping IBM’s PPC 64-bit, and switching to Intel, computing has returned to the Macintosh! So back to the past?

Big difference

All standard programs are ported to 64-bit, Safari, and Finder run in 64-bit modus. It’s noticeable when you first start your Apple, and run programs from a cold start. Leopard tend to run slowly the first 5minutes. But with Snow Leopard this lagging has been fixed. The desktop, and dashboard are very responsive. No more slacking behind, (almost) instant program starts.

Software support

Numerous websites are dedicate at blaming Apple for poor software support with Snow Leopard, duh it’s 64-bit. Apparently software firms need plan their code further ahead!

Thing i’ve noticed add-on’s like Flash, Shockwave, Java, and other programs have trouble working with the 64-bit systems. Fortunatly most manufacturers have made a Snow Leopard version available, thumbs up!

Note: shockwave still does not work! (from their site: “requirements: 10.4 or higher”). Safari adBlock also does not work, they recommend running Safari in 32-bit modus, kind of ridiculous.

Enclosed software

With Leopard iPhoto, iMovie, Garageband came as standard. This software has been added to the iLife software of Apple, and are no longer shipped with the Snow Leopard OS. For an OS without the extra software €29,95 that’s smart marketing. You have to get the iLife package with cost €79,- , so total cost will be about the same as Leopard or any Microsoft equivalent. And you think it’s just thirty quid.

For Leopard up graders there is a solution, install Apple’s Rosetta software, and install iPhoto etc. from the Leopard CD.

Bootcamp 3 is also shipped. I’ve preformed an installation of Windows 7 pro 64-bit. All without problems.