The latest point release of Mac OS X, version 10.3, is code named Panther. Yes, version 10.3, despite the fact that OS X is really only 3 years old. The version numbers lie, but to be honest OS X looks a lot more mature that Windows which is in version god-knows-what. The fact that this is a point release is also misleading if you judge it on the basis of what it includes that’s new. It’s impressive. The only negative is that Apple wants $130 for the upgrade, but it is probably worth the price.

The new features can be classified into three areas:

1. The GUI: The Apple GUI has always been better than Windows to the point where there’s no sense in comparing, but Apple continues to improve it. Apple has added cleverly organized navigation shortcuts using a sidebar, a feature called Exposé which displays all open windows as an array of panels for you to select from (this is probably far more useful than a simple description can express), colour coded file labeling and multiple user desktops (as in Windows XP), which includes a fancy rotating transition with one desktop rotating to nothing while the next comes forward.
2. Utilities: Panther has built-in faxing with automatic print-out of faxes, a homegrown version of Acrobat Reader, Text Edit a text program that can work with simple MS Word documents and a zipping feature for files (as in Windows). Safari, Apple’s browser has received a make-over and continues to be a lot better than Explorer. If you weren’t aware one of the nice features of Safari is that it automatically blocks pop-ups.
3. Security: Panther adds transparent file encryption that is virtually unbreakable (in case your lap-top gets stolen), automatic log-off after a period of no activity, secure trash that actually overwrites discarded files, and it also includes scheduled shut down and start-up (which is more about saving electricity than keeping the PC secure). Also there is a neat anti-spam feature that will be a godsend to most home PC users.

In fact security has never been much of a problem for Apple users. These Apples don’t get worms or other kinds of malware – and that on its own is becoming a good enough reason to join the Apple community.