Bait & Switch or Whine and Bitch?
It sounds like Apple might be at it again – give something away for free and then start charging for it later. To me, dotMac was their “test the waters” move. They lost some subscribers, but they gained some revenue. If they do start charging for software, the interpretation will be dictated based on the presentation. Apple kinda whined when people were shocked and amazed that Apple would start charging for a once-free service. Of course, so did most of the subscribers.
I think it is great that Apple has (usually) some AWESOME software. iMovie, iTunes, and iPhoto are all AMAZING pieces of software and truly define the Mac experience. iCal is still, to me, a work in progress.
I applaud Apple for having the huevos to charge for good software – but make it worth my money. One of the huge attractions of Apple is the all-in-one package. They sell great computers that come equipped with everything you need to appear like a media genius. If they want to charge me for their software – that's fine. I'll pay it. But, don't go the Microsoft route of charging UNBELIEVABLE prices for software and then FORCING people to upgrade. If you charge a fair price for great innovation, people will pay – gladly.
What would I pay?
iTunes: $50
iPhoto: $35
iMovie: $99
iCal: $0, zip, zero, zilch
BUT – don't expect me to pay this with each new upgrade. Remember: When you force people to pay when the value isn't there, you begin to lose your “Fanatical Zealot” following – and that Apple, is why you are where you are today and why I, among thousands of others, never doubted you would be.
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Apple preparing new upgrade fees. In a move that could anger customers, the company next week will announce a plan to charge for upgrades to some of its highly acclaimed “digital hub” software. [CNET News.com]