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The Apple Of My Eye - Even I'm Amazed

APPLE COMPUTER ROCKS HARD!

Apple haters might want to stop reading. You're not going to like this post. I'll let you know when you can return.

I wrote a post back in February that contained a short blurb about how the Apple Store in King Of Prussia, PA treated me. The Kindness Of Strangers focused on an Internet friendship I had developed with Neal Baldwin. But it could just as easily have been about the kindness of the Apple Store employees who were also strangers. These people kept a store open past closing for me. I wrote, "I can't even describe how amazing the Apple Store folks were. The paperwork was waiting for me when I ran in, out of breath." I was blown away by their willingness to go the extra mile.

Today, the Apple Store in Northridge, CA took it to a whole new level.

MacBook Pro 17 Inch I purchased a new 17" MacBook Pro about 40 days ago. At the same time, I decided to switch my wireless card from Verizon to Cingular/ATT in preparation for the iPhone release. After using the card two times, the card simply would not stay in the Express Card slot. This happened two weeks ago and I was dreading taking the laptop back in. I knew it was a moving part/mechanical failure and would have to be sent for repair.

I was right. The manager told me I would have to be without my laptop for 7 days. Well, that's not an option for me, so i asked him what he could do. He said, "The problem is, even if I wanted to replace this for you, I can't. We're out of stock on the 17" model because Apple just released the new models yesterday." That's the story of my life, by the way, I always end up buying new Macs about 30 days before they release an upgrade. I've learned to live with it.

Then he did something cool. He said, "Listen, if you'll pay for a refurbished one, we can transfer all of your data and you can use it for the next week. When yours is fixed, just bring the used one back in and we'll refund all of the money."

Wow. Yeah, that works.

So, we started the transfer process. (Which is brilliantly simple on a Mac, by the way.) And I was truly happy.

But that's not why I am amazed.

About 10 minutes into the transfer, the manager stepped out of the back room, smiling. "You are one lucky guy," he said. "We just got our delivery of the new MacBook Pro and this one has your name written all over it."

I was startled. "The new, faster, thinner, upgraded model?" I asked. "Yes. You've been very patient. I'm DOAing yours and you can have this one." He absolutely did NOT have to do that. They then transfered all of my files and settings and two hours later I had a brand spanking new, upgraded MacBook Pro, fresh off the assembly line.

Over the last 20 years, I've personally approved the purchase of literally thousands of Macintosh computers. There are lots of reasons why, including ease of use, ease of set up, reliability, and the stability of the OS. I can now add one more to my ever growing list.

Today, I was reminded why I'm happy to be a part of 6.46% of people who use a Mac as their personal computer. And I've never hesitated to recommend a switch.

Ok... all the Apple haters can come back now.

Posted by Jeff Turner on 06/07/2007 02:42 AM

Comments (93)

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Originally posted at: Turner's Perspective: The Apple Of My Eye - Even I'm Amazed

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93 Comments on The Apple Of My Eye - Even I'm Amazed

JUN

2007

I'm not a hater

but i might be a convert this year

i just setup a macbook pro 15" for a customer

copied all their data of a pc on to the mac

the only problem i see is SoCal MLS issues
but then go parallels to fix but for most agents its WAY over their head

I used to work for Apple. So many people love to work there, not because they want to work for a computer company or a software company but because they want to work for Apple. In fact, way, WAY back when Apple first started taking support calls directly from end users (1-800-SOS-APPLE) in 1992, I was one of the folks answering those calls. There is a passion for Macs that runs deep with most of the folks who work at Apple. I know there is/was for me.

I was briefly tempted away from Apple systems - using the windows emulators on an Apple Laptop so I could run WinForms was just getting tired.

However, I have been reminded over the last year why I preferred macs over windows machines and have migrated back into the fold of the "Blessed OS". With the new intel macs and the various tools to run Windows applications on a Mac (WITHOUT installing windows - try crossroads, it rocks), there is no longer ANY reason to use anything but a Mac.

I plan on opening my brokerage office in the next 6 months or so. I plan on running that office on nothing but Macs.

It is hard to make the switch to MAC but from all that I hear - if you are not willing to do a complete switch it is worth the money just to own one! My husband has recently gotten into photography and video work as a hobby on a semi professional level.

As with most guys - he has expensive taste in hobbies. He debated over getting his video editing software for a MAC but decided that spending over $2000 on the software plus another $2000+ for the computer at the same time would probably not go over well with me - so he purchased only the software. He did this without asking my opinion but had he asked I would have told him to just go with the MAC because I know in the long run it will save us money - because I am sure he will end up with a MAC and have to buy the software all over again!

My understanding is that MAC's very seldom get virus's - is that true? Father's Day is coming up - maybe I will surprise him with a new computer - thanks for letting me know that there is a new store in Northridge!

*Sigh*

Customer service is a great thing. My husband was a mac lover, but when I got into RE, we made the switch. An agent in my office uses one and the mls doesn't work properly. Maybe in the future, when I have time, I'll check it out. All my kids are screaming for one to do music and recording on.

I know they have a loyal following as you have mentioned. Thanks for sharing from your prospective, since you the so popular on AR, you should have signed up to sell them ! I'm sure tons of AR will switch.

Mac's are better no doubt. I bought my first Mac in 1990. I used them until 1996 when i was forced to switch because they were not compatible with the networks or software at the large corporations where was a consultant.

It's nice to hear postive stories about customer service, too often we're quick to complain instead of compliment.
As far as Apple VS Whatever I use? I don't know the difference :) So I don't "dislike" Apple at all.

I love the idea of owning an apple but just can't bring myself.

Its in my budget for this year - definitely. I've only heard positive feedback.

I don't know Apples from Oranges, but that's definitely Nordstrom style customer service whomever you were working with.

Congratulations

My husband also has a mac book pro and we love it. Because of the parallels we can do everything on it. I also do photograhy and it works great iphoto is so easy. Macs in general are just user friendly. I'll be upgrading my computer soon and it will so be a mac,

Missy has a good point, my MLS only works in IE. I can't even access it from Firefox! I'd think about a Mac for the rest of my work (that's you!) but my mercenary MLS is not very flexible.

Apple products rock and remember that they are the one's changing not the consumer. For years they marketed to those in the design and marketing production fields and not to the daily bsiness user. Now they have it so their systems run all of those neat programs we need in our business. Their internal change allows them now to quadruple the size of their market share because all be it boring those on this BLOG need data bases, EXCEL, Powerpoint etc to go w/ our photo software.

Jeff- have been an Apple lover for many years- Now that the intel chip is there I run Parallels for MLS and any other IE only programs - works like a charm, but every time I have to run Windows its a reminder of how much better the MAC operating system is. I am anxiously awaiting the Leopard release. The customer service at at Apple store is great - Apple has made the retail outlets work when others have failed, maybe this is one reason why.

We have our pc, and the Apple laptop. The quality difference is absolutely stunning. While I haven't yet familiarized myself with the Apple (Sean's become verrrrry protective of his laptop) I plan, when my own pc runs out of gas, to purchase the same one- there is just no comparing the two for quality output. Glad to hear that the customer service is superb- I'm not surprised.

jeff -

I'm not a hater of Apple either. I just don't see a whole lot of them around me. I know that graphics people have used them for years. If I'd been fortunate enough to have been around one of these people, I probably would have gotten into Apple. I love the commercials of PC and Apple. That has helped me to understand some of the major differences. I believe you when you say they are GREAT! Hey, you're the person that taught us all about the Kodak camera . . .

Thanks for the post, and I'm happy to hear that you received excellent service from this computer person. That's what it's all about.

Jeff, I am really glad you wrote this. We have been debating an Apple switch at home for several months now. The main reason is we need a new computer in the house - and since our kids use apples at school it just made sense. We have been impressed so far with the patience level & knowledge at the store each time we go in asking questions, and still not buying. I also received superior service on a busted ipod. I may have to contact you more about this later when we are getting ready to buy.

Jay wants one so bad! I hope he does not read this Jeff because he'll go crazy dreaming of one.

Jeff - I'm so happy I made the switch also. I had a similar experience at the Apple store. When I purchased my MacBook I got the Airport Extreme and they gave me a free printer. I was happy. The only problem was that the printer was not wireless and I could not print from my laptop. When I went back in I was prepared to just upgrade to a different printer. The wireless printer they had was $300, ouch, but you gotta do what you gotta do. When I wen to pay the manager said the salesman should have realized that the components did not go together so they gave me the nifty high tech wireless printer for free!

Love my Mac.

And so the story goes with RE people...our MLS has an "add on" for Mac...bottom line I think Mac is most likely the best for your graphics, movie editing etc. For my work...well, I'm happy with what I have. (and know...haha)

I needed a new computer at home and was having trouble finding one without Vista installed. ( Dont like it much) Went ahead and bought an I MAC, at Best Buy, and would now like to replace all 4 of the families computers. MLS works fine on mine.

I am sold! Next purchase will be a MacBook for my oldest daughter (16) who is graduating from high school next week.

My father purchased the first Mac out when I was in grade school. I learned on a Mac and love them. Kevin is a faithful convert and will never go back. Now that most of our work applications are web based, there is no reason for us to use anything else. We also have a bunch of the "Think Different" posters up (Kermit is my personal favorite). Sherry

That is very cool. I'm so happy for you and I can see why you are SO loyal!

You are truly a lucky man. I just got the 24" iMac which is bigger than my first TV. It makes me smile everytime I walk into my office.

JUN

2007

Very cool - now that's called customer service! Hard to find a windows distributer doing something like that. I'm a windows man just 'cause all my programs are on windows but macs are definitely top notch if you can afford them.

BTW - what browser have you found to work best on OSX?

Jeff, Moni and I have agreed my next laptop will be an Apple. I am tired of all the problems we have had with all the laptops and desktops we have owned over the years with windows. We do have a Mac LCII up in the attic that ran great but like Teresa Boardman said we were forced to switch.

Jeff that's great. I personally never even considered buying an Apple but now I understand they run windows programs etc. My daughter has one and she loves it for the teachng profession it seems to be the standard in CT. I'm not so sure about real estate programs with the Connectciut MLS and Litchfield County MLS how that works.
But I thin its time I reconsidered my options.

Has anyone switched from PC to MAC lately?
What's your experience been with running Windows Programs on a MAC?

Thanks,

Http://realtybydan.com

Darn it! Jeff,

These things are supposed to be our little secret. Don't tell everybody about how great the macs are and how it is easier to do almost everything with them, including Win/IE only MLS's (like both that I use). Do you run parallels? it just makes me giggle... Soon folks will be using imovie and stills to make VT's. Hummm...

Mac's are GREAT! And if you say you're more of a PC guy, well parallels fixing that problem for you. Now you can run both programs.

Jeff, I think I am going to switch to Mac, as well. I never really new any different, was always told mac was for graphics. Well, anyway, now we do a lot with pics, now that I have the new V705. :)

JUN

2007

John... I'm here for you, man. :)

JUN

2007

Jeff

I switched years ago and now I am just trying to get away from using parrallels. I am trying to get away frop Top Producer. I am using pages to produce my brochures.

I soooo want a Mac. I'm married to a PC addict so it would also keep him off my laptop. My next laptop is going to have to be a MAC.

JUN

2007

Aziz... parallels 3 is about to be released which will make the "PC" experience on the Mac even simpler. Check it out.

Deb... good decision. :)

JUN

2007

I can't believe I missed your Mac Blog.

My dad bought our first Macintosh when I was 5 (Had an Apple IIe before I was born) and I have been a Mouse using, Clipart loving fool ever since. When they introduced the "mouse" to the computers in our school in 7th grade I was like, Uh Yea, I have used that for years. Should of kept my mouth shut, they took away my turn since I already knew how.

My biggest pet peeve? That NAR and AAR and TAR and other Real Estate associations I belong to don't recocgnize that Apple computers are so much better at doing things, and making it easier. I got my "eNeighborhoods" cd yesterday and it won't run on my Mac. I can't find a client manager to work on it (though I just heard about REST, need to do some research), and Citrix is better than nothing for the MLS. Sorry folks, I have steered clear of Windows for 15 years, I'm not going there now!

An Apple a Day Keeps the Geek Squad away!

Lexa

JUN

2007

Lexa... I'm betting if you get an Intel Mac and run Parallels, you'll be able to do it all. I've found nothing I can do since the move to Intel. Not that I missed anything before. :)

JUN

2007

My husband is in the video editing business so all he uses is a Mac. So our last two laptops have been Macs (we just bought a new one two weeks ago). It's amazing what kind of trouble I go through using the regular PC comp at work and how sensitive it is to viruses and all kinds of crap. I don't ever worry about that at home. Haven't had a problem yet with a virus, and the one problem we had with our laptop, the customer support was amazing and had a box shipped to our home for our laptop and they returned it to us very quickly. All fixed! That was four years ago (five this Christmas).

Great story, Amanda!

Jeff, We are a household of passionate MAC users. I really just don't get why anyone would use anything else. As you said, customer service is amazing. Very Intelligent staff. Love the Apple Store. All retailers should use them as a model. We had our kids attend Free Mac Camp a couple of summers ago, they learned iphoto, how to make movies, did some really cool stuff with garage band. It is so intuitive and easy and always leading edge. My husband is a Web Usability guy and you don't even want to get him started about anything related to MACS. I can't wait to show him your post tonight. Thanks, Rhonda

Rhonda... I started my first company as a result of the infamous 1984 Superbowl Ad. I literally owe my entire career to the Mac. That's not hyperbole. I met Steve Jobs a few years ago and had the pleasure of telling him that face to face. It brought me great joy.

Jeff, wow, you met Steve Jobs. I don't know if my husband could handle me telling him that. He might just knock me off my spot here on AR just to talk to you!! I would love to hear more. I guess I will have to really give your profile a good reading this weekend. Thanks, for sharing. Rhonda

Rhonda... don't go overboard now. The meeting was chance and lasted just a minute. But I was thrilled to be able to thank him personally.

Ha! Not to worry. That would be enough for him, believe me!! Have a great weekend. Rhonda

I still wish I had my old apple 11 it was a nice old girl who never let me down, never locked up, never crashed, never got a virus.

I feel the same way about all of my current mac "girls." :)

Darn, I was sucked in thinking you might actually be touting the "real" apples... you know the ones where you eat one a day to keep the doctor away? If you do buy the "other" apples, be sure they're from Washington!

JUN

2007

Carol... are there any other kind? :)

Jeff: Some people have been fooled into thinking so, but I can see you're not one of the unenlightened!

LOL!! I love the little side conversations that sometimes come unexpectedly. You've made me smile today.

Then you've made my day by knowing I've made YOU smile.

JUN

2007

JUL

2007

As an Apple Consultant with experience in the Real Estate and Mortgage industries, You will never be as productive or efficient on a windows machine as you will be with an Apple running Windows. They both have their advantages, but think about it....by using them both, you have the total solution. The Windows side will handle the business side of accessing the MLS systems and other aspects of the business while the Apple side brings to the table a level of creativity that Windows can only dream about. Features like photo, video and web integration that most agents could learn over a weekend. To say there is a heavy learning curve is not accurate. Most of my clients have become proficient enough to run their business on their new mac within 2 weeks. If you cant invest 2 weeks into your business to learn a new technology to increase productivity levels, then yo are already out of business, you just dont know it yet. Look at the idea and realize that you cant use the idea that the Apples cost to much anymore. It has been proven that Apples are actually cheaper than a pc when you look at upgrading the pc to meet the Apples specs. The parallels software lets you use all your peripherals like printers, scanners, all in ones, etc. The total solution is available to anyone who will spend a minimal amount of time learning on the easiest platform on the market.

Joe@joethemacguy.net

www.joethemacguy.net

JUL

2007

Wow, you were in KOP? We could have had an AR celebration East meets West.

Next time I get a computer, I will seriously look at the Apple. I have heard nothing but great things and your blog added to that.

JUL

2007

Jeff: I love the Macbooks once I laid eyes on it. It's spectacular. The best part of it is that it can boot up in the Windows OS as well. I have a 15" super dinosaur Dell now (It's 4 years old and it weighs a ton). I cant wait to get my hands the 13in one. I've been burnt by the weight so the smaller the better for me....

I love photography as well. So, I think I could process the pictures better there.

It's more of a want, than a need......

JUL

2007

wow I have never even considered a Mac, but I will look into it now!!!

AUG

2007

I've always wanted one but at my age, who can relearn? Not me. I'm still figuring our my own computer, but I've heard, for shear pizazz, you can't beat them. Thanks for the post.

Patty... it's never too late to learn. The benefits heavily outweigh the learning curve.

AUG

2007

Thank you very much for sharing, I would like to get a Mac, I wonder if the service you got is typically or if you are an extremely lucky guy.

AUG

2007

Shane... I've been using Mac for 20 yeas. The service level has always been world class.

SEP

2007

Jeff, I recently had an excellent first visit to the Apple Store here in Annapolis. I was impressed by the products and the personnel. The service and satisfaction you received at your Apple Store was extraordinary! I'm a PC user and a Mac admirer, and no guilt!

We're an Apple family here. My wife's birthday is Monday and our Anniversary is on Thursday, so she's getting a new Mac. I know, not very romantic. But that's what SHE wants! :)

SEP

2007

You know, I have used both and personally love my pc!

SEP

2007

Barbara-Jo & Bill... there's always an exception to the rule. :)

SEP

2007

My daughter just bought a new Apple, she is hooked, would not buy anything else. I tried to buy her a less expensive laptop, she refused, said she would just be patient and wait until she had more money. She would relate more than I....if I can log onto the internet thats all I really care about. Great infomation, keep up the great postings.

SEP

2007

Janna... thank you. You must have done something right to raise a daughter that intelligent. :)

OCT

2007

I remember being on a message board back around 1999-2000 and everyone was saying "windows is where its at!" There were about three posters (myself included) who were telling the windows worshipers that they didn't know what they were missing. I wonder how many of them are still using WINDOZE....ZZZZZZZZ? So many die hard windows fans are discovering how much nicer the Mac OS is. I just can't say "I told you so" often enough!

OCT

2007

Ruthmarie... I never tire of it either. :) However, I do bash Apple when it needs bashed, like my ire over the iPhone not supporting flash.

OCT

2007

Hello All!

I just found this group and I am very excited! In my past life I was a K-8 computer lab teacher... and yes it was ALL Apple. Think LCII and Power Mac 6100 (woohoo) and this was 1999. So here I am with a Powerbook G4 wishing for a G5 (only bc of Intel processor/Parallels and IE AND only when I have no other choice, Virtual PC is kinda a drag) ..... I know I will never own anything else other than a Mac. :)

I hear people mentioning the Apple Store and just wanted to throw out MacMall.com. They usually have great deals/rebates and there are a few stores if you're lucky enough to live near Torrance, CA, Santa Monica, CA or Memphis, TN. They also have PCMall but Ssshhhh!

I laughed out loud when it was mentioned that virtual tours are in fact iMovie. I've recently started staging homes and I am focusing more on the real estate world and CAN'T BELIEVE I didn't make that connection. I've been so busy getting my business started I haven't really gotten to a virtual tour yet. At least I know that part will be easy...and fun!

I've been out of the technology loop for a few years so I can't wait to find out about new things that I can do with my Mac!

OCT

2007

Oh! I forgot to mention ... whole point of thread.. duh... that my first experience with Apple was so great that I am good friends to this day with the Apple tech guy that came out with the sales team (I was trying to convince my principal to buy me new computers!) He came out, for free, many a day that went well into the evening helping me make the most out of what I had in my lab. I still call him for help, esp. since he now owns his own IT company:) still for free!! LOL

NOV

2007

I chose PC because that is what I learned on in school, and that is what my kids are learning on in school.

I wonder if the bigger schools offer the option of mac or pc computing courses? Mine is admittedly tiny!

NOV

2007

Thanks for this article Jeff! I've been wanting to switch to MAC for a while now, but thought it has always been more gearged towards the Artist...not the business sector... Thanks - I'm buying one!!

DEC

2007

Jeff, I am not there yet! What great experiences you share with the Mac.

My cousin Arnold, just wrote a book which, IMHO, is probably just for me. "Switching to a Mac for Dummies"

DEC

2007

Hi Jeff: Thanks for such a tremendous post. Just out of curiousity, last Sunday I went to a class at the Apple Store... MAC for Newbies, or something like that. With all I had either read or heard other people brag about, the MAC sounded like something I needed to know even more about. Well, the one hour class... combined with my frustration with having Vista on my PC... did the trick. I drove home last Sunday with my new MAC. Twenty-four inch screen, 2.8 giga-whatever, and all that built-in software. Tuesday I took my MAC and my PC into the Apple Store for my "transfer" and Thursday I had my first one-hour one-to-one class with one of their "Creative Consultants." Fifty-One more classes to go. The classes are worth their time in gold. I feel like I paid for the classes, and got the MAC for free. Once again... thanks for such a great post ! Take care...

JAN

2008

I am much more familiar with PC, but I keep hearing great things about the MAC. Sounds like their shops maintain great service as well. After my horrid experience with Vista (purchased a Vista equipped laptop end of 07) I may very well switch to MAC

I have just converted over from the dark side. I am looking at the new i Work for word etc. Is this a good fit, or would you recommend staying with Office for a Mac.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

JAN

2008

I have heard good things about iWork. I have an older version but have to be honest and tell you that I use MS Office for Mac. If you want to try a free source, look at NEO office. www.neooffice.org

FEB

2008

Hi Jeff,

Can you still remember the white album.

Is it true that Ringo Star had something to do with the Apple?

John Hurbon

Google Benson Horse Property to keep me alive...

FEB

2008

I love apple because of the reliability and their service. It was the best computer decision I have made

FEB

2008

If the Dark Side doesn't stop the BS with Vista, I might become a convert the next time I buy a laptop. Grrr

FEB

2008

I was ripe for an Apple! Frustrating with my pc, I switched to mac about 3 months ago, and by jove, I think I've got it. I've never been happier with reliability, ease of use, and intuitive design. I do rely on parallels -- glad to hear a new version is coming out -- but it gets jammed pretty frequently. One thing I love about the apple store is that they can check you out with their fancy little hand-held gadget, so you don't have to wait at the front register, then they email your receipt. So, you always know where it is.

Dawn... I've never regretted recommending a Mac to anyone.
Why? Because I know exactly what you're going to get.
It's not hype.

Sarah... the sooner the better! :)

MAR

2008

Jeff, you were very fortunate and it's great they were willing to go the extra mile for you. I've had a friend trying to convert me for a while now, and it is definitely worth taking a look.

MAR

2008

It's nice to hear about a place where customer service is not an oxymoron.

MAR

2008

OK, I only have two complaints about mac and maybe smarter mac users can help me. i have owned a mac before, but sold it. I liked it , but most all of my business applications wouldn't run, many online apps, top producer, our MLS, that was my big disappointment. With all that money you would think they would make it so thy can work with windows and mac.

Second is windows media embbeded stuff never showed up. People said I could download something to fix it, but I tried and never got it to work. maybe stuff that can be fixed but I thought when I bought a mac it would do everythig my PC could do and more and that wasn't my experience.

But yes they are sweet in many ways and mac people may be smarter :) and nicer

Ross... when did you last own a Mac?

MAR

2008

Waiting on the nerve to switch as I don't have time for the learning curve right now, but I WANT ONE! You are pushing me over the edge.

Ironic that I stumbled on this post. I am in the market for a new computer and have really been considering a Mac. I have been reluctant because I am fearful of the change over as I have never owned a Mac. I guess having to get all new software is a hinderance for me and i was worried about hooking up my printer and digital camera, etc. I carefully read your post as well as your comments and I think you made me feel better about it. Thank you :) In my quest I really have heard a ton of great things about Mac. I appreciate you sharing your experiences.

MAR

2008

This is making it easier for my to make a decision! Still very nervous about it though, but I've been yearning for a MAC for a long time now.

MAR

2008

The price is well worth as well. A Mac will keep running long after the $599 Windows machine kicks the bucket due to its smaller hard drive, lack of RAM, or a hack attack. The only reason I use Windows on my Macbook Pro is because my real estate forms application and the dreaded MLS only runs on Windows! Everything works well. I recently purchased an Iphone, which transfered my calendar, contacts, email and some music and videos. How much better can it get?