Apple Computer Inc., the maker of the Macintosh computer and iPod music player, on Wednesday rolled out a first-ever software patch to run Microsoft's dominant Windows operating system on its PCs, a move that could draw millions of new buyers.
Apple shares surged 9 percent on Nasdaq, where it was the second most active issue. The move could also effectively bring to a close a decades-long rivalry between Apple and Microsoft over their respective operating systems.
By allowing Macs to run Microsoft Corp.'s Windows, the operating system found on more than 90 percent of the world's personal computers, Apple could woo people who want Macs, which are considered by many as easier to use and more stylish, but prefer the Windows operating system. More...
