Full FeedApple exploring implementing ads into Mac OS X?
In an oddly unusual patent application Apple filed back in 2008, the company seemingly explores the possibility of integrating advertisements into its Mac OS X (or possibly even a new and unreleased) operating system. The graphics that have been provided even show how Apple might implement it into OS X, as shown in the image above. In exchange for viewing the advertisements, the user would receive some goods or service for free or at a discounted price, as noted in the excerpt from the patent below:
Among other disclosures, an operating system presents one or more advertisements to a user and disables one or more functions while the advertisement is being presented. At the end of the advertisement, the operating system again enables the function(s). The advertisement can be visual or audible. The presentation of the advertisement(s) can be made as part of an approach where the user obtains a good or service, such as the operating system, for free or at reduced cost.
In the late 1990s, free computers were offered to customers in exchange for viewing advertisements, although that practice has lost popularity over the past couple of years. It remains unclear if Apple has any real intentions of pursuing this concept, although Steve Jobs is listed as one of the inventors of the patent, so the possibility is there.
What are your thoughts on an ad-supported Mac OS X? Let’s hear them in the comments.
Read [Engadget]
Subscribe to keep up with the latest Apple news and rumors! - 
Subscribe to our feed
Black Friday 2009
Black Friday is almost here! Gadgetell's got you covered with all the latest news on who's offering the best deals. Dangerous crowds? You're on your own.
Our new podcast: Meet...
We know. Podcasts are so last year - but this one you won't want to miss. Whether it’s a rumor that won’t die, a new product announcement, or just a really good Macintosh or iPhone app find that we have to let you know about, we’ll make sure it’s covered on Appletellcast.
iPhone App Reviews
iPhone Apps. They were great when the App Store was first announced and we could all pick and chose what we wanted, but the number is now overwhelming. Here at Appletell, we'll detail the great iPhone apps we find, and steer you clear from those that aren't worth it even if they're free.
iPhone Game Reviews
As Apple turns the iPhone into one of the most popular gaming devices, the staff of Appletell--gamers and Apple fans alike--are here to help you get the most entertainment value out of your app store purchases.
Or it could be a pre-emptive strike. If Apple holds the patent on an OS with integrated ads, nobody else can do it without Apple’s permission. Kind of cuts off ad-based Linux at the knees.
on October 22, 2009 at 09:53 AM - LINKThe very idea of adding commercial content to the operating system is despicable. It reaks of there existing two OSX’s: one with advertising and one without. The one with advertising would have a lower price point than the one without, obviously.
on October 22, 2009 at 10:52 AM - LINKI only hope that if Apple feels compelled to make ads a part of the OSX experience, they elect to do it with the two versions.
Personally, I will always choose one without.
AS
I definitely agree with Arthur on this one. If Apple did decide to ad-support OS X or a future operating system, there should be an ad-free version as well, even if it is more expensive.
I will also be going with the ad-free version, I am personally very tired of so much software being plagued with advertisements.
on October 22, 2009 at 12:42 PM - LINK