APPLE IS BIG BUSINESS
Last week we saw that the Apple brand is the world’s most valuable, with an enormous brand valuation of $517 billion – Microsoft, Google and Amazon don’t even come close. The Cupertino-headquartered tech giant also has a market capitalisation of $2.6 trillion, hot on the heels of Microsoft’s $2.9 trillion. But why are businesses beyond those in the creative and media sectors starting to buy into Apple devices, and in particular Apple Macs? Is it more than the reliability, security, design and integration capabilities of the devices? Or are there other factors contributing to the surge in popularity?
APPLE MAC EQUALS INNOVATION
Some say, including Apple themselves, that the most innovative companies run on Mac. Based on data from the Boston Consulting Group, 84% of the world’s top innovators, including SAP, Salesforce and Target, deploy Mac at scale. When Apple unveiled the Macintosh personal computer during the Super Bowl XVIII TV ad on 22 January 1984, it felt more like the debut of a blockbuster film than a typical tech launch. The commercial was directed by British filmmaker Ridley Scott, a choice that underscored the vision behind the product. Steve Jobs understood that he wasn’t just marketing a machine with computing power or storage capacity. He was offering a gateway to a new way of technological capability at work and home. As the Mac turns 40 this year, it’s clear that its impact is much more than technological prowess. At its core, the Mac has always been about enriching our experience through innovation. For business, it’s a reminder to innovators that successful technology isn’t solely about specs and features. It’s about how seamlessly it fits into people’s lives. Jacob O. Wobbrock, a Professor of Information at the University of Washington tells us:
“As computers go, was the Macintosh innovative? Sure. But not for any particular computing breakthrough. It was not any one technical thing that the Macintosh did first. The Macintosh revolutionized the personal computing industry and everything that was to follow because of its emphasis on providing a satisfying, simplified user experience.”
Innovative, it may be, but is the Mac worth its seemingly hefty price tag, especially for small businesses or start-ups?
WHY DOES APPLE MAC STAND OUT?
Apple MacBooks stand as exemplars of laptop excellence. Despite preconceptions, the MacBook Air emerges as a frontrunner in portable computing, offering unparalleled power for its price point. Whether your gaze falls on the Air or any other MacBook model, rest assured it will meet and exceed your expectations. With stunning displays, responsive touchpads, and sleek, attractive designs, MacBooks consistently deliver on all fronts. Sounds like a good ad for Macs, right?
M1 PROCESSOR
In 2020, Apple embarked on a transformative journey for its MacBooks, bidding farewell to Intel chips in favour of its own M1 processors. This move, akin to the groundbreaking shifts seen in Apple’s iPhone line, empowers the company with enhanced control over both hardware and software. The M1 chip outpaces its Intel counterparts in raw performance and boasts remarkable efficiency. MacBooks sporting M1 processors operate with minimal heat output and boast enduring battery life, even under demanding workloads.
ARE MACS WORTH IT?
Some say that Macs are the unsung heroes of the tech world. But is forking out that extra cash worth it? While undeniably “worth it,” Apple’s pricing for upgrades may give pause for thought, prompting consideration of alternative options. Nevertheless, here are some reasons that justify paying £999 for a MacBook Air or a whopping £1,699 for a MacBook Pro:
- Macs tend to have a longer lifecycle than Windows machines, potentially saving you about £600 thanks to the longer lifespan
- Apple devices, overall, tend to have a better resale value
- macOS is much more secure than its Windows counterpart
- With the M1 processors, there is no need for RAM upgrades
- Macs are fully compatible with iPhones and iPads operating on iOS and iPadOS respectively
- Cloud storage solutions now make it easy for Mac and Windows devices to speak to each other
- Macs generally need less IT support
With all the above in mind, maybe it’s time to start getting comfy with Apple Macs.
DO MACS NEED IT SUPPORT AND MONITORING?
Mac users constitute just over 8% of the global market share of computer platforms, while Microsoft users account for nearly 89%. And while the macOS isn’t impenetrable, it’s that they aren’t currently worth a hacker’s time. Also, because of the ease of use, most Mac devices don’t need much day-to-day attention. However, Macs are not immune to issues and technical difficulties. This is where Mac IT support comes in. Having a dedicated and reputable MacIT support service or Managed Service Provider (MSP) ensures that any issues are dealt with quickly and efficiently, minimizing any downtime for your business. This is especially important for businesses that rely heavily on technology for their day-to-day operations. Furthermore, Mac IT support can also help with software and system updates. Keeping your Macs up to date with the latest software and security updates is essential for keeping your data safe and your systems running smoothly. Mac IT support can take care of these updates for you, saving you time and ensuring your systems are always up to date. Finally, Mac IT support can provide training and support for your staff. This is especially useful for businesses that are new to using Macs. Having a dedicated support team can help your staff get up to speed quickly and ensure they are using the Macs efficiently and effectively. It’s also important to know what questions to ask a potential Apple MSP before signing a contract with them. Our blog last week covered all of that.
ZHERO SUPPORT FOR APPLE MACS
Zhero is London’s #1 end-to-end cybersecurity and IT support for SMEs. Unlike most of our regional competitors, we are also experts at supporting Macs and other Apple devices. With our wealth of experience in IT support for businesses, we specialise in expertly managed Mac support packages. Rest assured that your IT infrastructure will stay current, secure, and easily accessible. Our Apple support services include
- Consultancy
- Mac networking
- Mac management
- Hardware support
- Procurement
- Apple deployment
- Training services
Let us handle your IT hurdles, freeing you to concentrate on your primary business endeavours with peace of mind. Empower your teams, boost productivity, and enjoy the advantages of our proactive support approach. Get in touch today and let us be the Apple of your eye.
