Category: browser
Apple Safari 3.1 - Windows (Part Deux)
A few days ago, I commented on my experience with Apple Safari 3.1 for WIndows. One of the things that I noted was that I wasn’t pleased with the stealth approach of how Apple was pushing it’s browser out to Windows iTunes users via the Software Update mechanism.
Per Wired, Apple has modified how Software Update presents the browser’s availability. The Software Update Window is now separated into two panes: “Updates” and “New Software”. People that aren’t careful with how they apply updates will still have Safari installed during their iTunes updates as it’s selected by default.
While I think Apple would have been smarter to leave Safari deselected by default, it’s good to see the change made.
Posted: 04.18.2008Apple Safari 3.1 - Windows
During a recent e-mail and verbal discussion with colleagues, the topic of favorite Windows/Vista browser was discussed (yet again). I.T. people discuss browser preferences like accountants discuss the intricacies of ‘expense vs. capitalization’. For people outside the industry, it’s generally a meaningless discussion; they want a browser that works and is both stable and fast.
Since I’m not adverse to trying new things, I decided to go grab Safari 3.1 and have a go with it. I was very hesitant to try Safari because of the rough shape of the previous beta. After giving Safari a try for about a week, I pleased to report that I am liking most of what it offers althogh there are a few oddities.
One thing that is a bit odd is Safari’s font appearance. Pages look very ‘Apple-like’ due to anti-aliasing display differences. This becomes problematic when looking at small fonts as many appear bolded or emphesized. In some cases, the font used appears unclear or even fuzzy.
I’m also puzzled as to why Apple doesn’t include a ‘home’ button on their default toolbar on a new installation. It’s not a huge deal for those that have used a few browsers in their time, but new-ish users might need to learn how to customize their browser configuration sooner than really necessary.
Lastly, I don’t particularly like the sneaky way that Apple is pushing out the software. It’s being pushed out through their software updates, and Safari is selected for download by default even if not previously on a system. I suppose this shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, Apple slipped in Itunes to it’s Quicktime customers the same way.
I’m still using Safari, so I guess that says something. But Apple still doesn’t get it when it comes to trying to woo PC users to it’s products. Many people that sit on the fence (like me) are turned off by the arrogance.
Posted: 04.08.2008