But with MAC they stifle the very competition you are talking about.
I was talking about competition between Windows and the Mac. Yes, Apple keeps tight control over the OS and hardware, but that results in a very stable platform (and a more expensive one). Without someone else developing new interface ideas, we would still be using Windows 3.11 or maybe 95. Linux certainly isn't competing in this area.
It's not like Mr. Gates is any better. He wants everything to run using his products and will do everything he can to lock everyone in.
Look at what has happened with Internet Explorer. Microsoft disbanded the development team a couple of years ago and only fixed security holes when they came up. Nothing new was added or developed until very recently. And that was only to add a pop-up blocker and more control over ActiveX controls. Now that FireFox is gaining ground, they are planning on bringing the team back together.
It's all about what you find easier and what you value. In other words personal preference. If the Mac doesn't do what you want, why does it matter of others do find it a better solution?
goates