But the real question is: which crowd? Apple's new operating system, which is due out March 24, eight months late, promises changes galore for the Mac community--enough changes, in fact, that the new OS might change the community itself. How? Mac OS X represents a fundamental shift in Apple's thinking, because the core of the OS is Unix, a popular command-line operating system that's favored by programmers, hackers, and the seriously computer savvy. OS X is based on the open source Darwin kernel, which samples from BSD Unix technology, among other things. In other words, geeks will love it.

Of course, Unix isn't new to the Mac environment. A small but significant number of Mac users use their PCs as Linux desktop and server systems. Various Linux distributions are available for the Mac, and vendors report that boxed sales of their products do well and show modest growth.

But Linux hasn't taken off in the consumer market, and Mac OS X could be a happy medium--a Unix-styled operating system that promises mainstream applications, ease of use, and a pretty new look. The Unix savvy will find new power in Mac OS X--server options, a command-line environment, and powerful networking--but will they migrate? Here, CNET looks at some of the benefits that could lure Unix lovers to the Aqua waters of OS X, and the changes Darwin might bring.

Evolution of a Darwin OS
Could a Unix core bring OS X to its feet? CNET explores the benefits of Darwin.

Using the Mac, Unix-style
A Mac OS with a Unix kernel? What's next--a G4 with a command line? You bet. Check it out.

New world of software?
An open source Mac OS means loads of Linux-compatible software, right? Well, maybe not just yet.

Show me how Unix can help OS X evolve!