http://www.macnn.com/articles/03/09/22/iw:.java/
IW: Java for Servers, Apple for desktops
updated 03:05 am EDT, Mon September 22, 2003
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Rebutting Sun's desktop Java initiative, Internet Week says the company should remain focused on server Java and providing a better cross-platform Java experience to Mac users: "I have only one piece of advice for Scott: If you really want an alternative to Windows, buy a Mac. It runs Unix just fine, has a great and stable graphical desktop environment that for the most part is Redmond-free," and concluding: "Java on the desktop is an idea that has come and gone. Stick to servers, Scott, and move front and center to fight that battle. ."
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jul 2001
Mostly Good Points
I don't think with a market cap of $13 billion vs. Apple's $8B (with $4B in the bank) that Apple is exactly an easy takeover target for Sun, but other than that comment, the article has some good points.
Though the thin client model still holds some promise, at this point it just doesn't seem to be happening the way Sun is pushing it. If they were to focus their Java strategy more in the server direction, where it seems much better suited, they'd stand a whole lot better chance of fighting it out with Microsoft (going up against .Net) than they will in the desktop arena, where they're first up against Windows, with the Mac and desktop Linux waiting in the wings as well.
Of course, as a Mac user, I'd also find it a whole lot more valuable to have Sun pushing standards (not to mention a better Mac-based Java engine) in the server and cross-platform applet space than trying to compete with Apple for corporate dollars.
I'm on Sun's side so long as they pick their battles well.