Phillip writes "Unix is what the new operating system [that will be on] every Macintosh computer with the introduction of OSX - isn't that what they are telling us.. well, here's what they are not telling us... As a former SGI operator, I deal with all kinds of software using Unix - Be prepared to be locked out of your next version of software. You see, every software company that builds a program for Unix has time locking code built into the Serial Number. So every six months to a year you have to call in with verification that you own that piece of software and they send you a new TimeCode/SSN via fax/ today probably e-mail. While this ensures that pirates are less likely to be able to use someone elses copy - as an end user that is a pain the the ass. You have to call into the vender - verify through a fax - wait two to three hours and then you get the new number. When software venders decide to implement this into the system it will probably be the last major upgrade anyone will choose and Apples drive to dominate the market will stop. "
I personally don't use any commerical Unix software, so can not verify the prevalance of this TimeCode method... however, many of the Mac OS 9 developers will be migrating along with the us - and it doesn't seem likely that they would suddenly start utilizing this method for consumers. Comments?