So the Apple software is free versus the MS software costs? Apple is open source? Linux is open source. Ah, you mean BSD. But isn't there a cost for the customized and maintained version of BSD? There is a free version but that is not the same version that is running on Apple computers.
And if there is a cost savings, apparently Apple is not passing this savings on to the consumer because that would be reflected in a lower unit cost which I am not seeing.
Also, it would be hard to believe consumers (or businesses) switching from low cost Windows laptops to very expensive Apple laptops. I know. I considered this option and the bang for the buck just isn't there for me. There is an obvious cost disparity between your typical Apple laptop and an MS/Windows version.
“And if there is a cost savings, apparently Apple is not passing this savings on to the consumer because that would be reflected in a lower unit cost which I am not seeing.”
I believe the only reason to lower cost is to compete when your product is an interchangeable commodity. The market sorts those issues out fairly well - paying or not paying as they see value.
“Also, it would be hard to believe consumers (or businesses) switching from low cost Windows laptops to very expensive Apple laptops.”
I think we agree there. Obviously some must be doing so, since IBM has partnered with Apple on some things.