Analyst: Early CS3, Leopard Release to Boost Mac Sales

by , 9:20 AM EST, March 5th, 2007

Prudential Equity Group analyst Jesse Tortora is predicting that Apple and Adobe will surprise consumers with earlier expected releases of Mac OS X 10.5 (Leopard) and Adobe Creative Suite 3 at the end of March. He expects the simultaneous release of both products will act as a catalyst to boost Mac sales, according to Forbes.

Mr. Tortora commented "We think this powerful one-two punch makes a great deal of sense, as it will likely unleash a flood of pent-up demand for both companies' products."

Many creative pros have been holding out for Intel-native versions of Adobe's design products before replacing their aging G4 and G5 Macs. Adobe Creative Suite 3 offers the Intel support users have been waiting for, and combined with Intel-based Macs pre-loaded with Leopard, makes a very compelling upgrade option for PowerPC Mac hold-outs.

He also expects the June release of the iPhone, an iPod and smart phone device, will help boost Apple's bottom line as well. Even if the model Steve Jobs announced at Macworld Expo 2007 doesn't see wide success, Mr. Tortora feels Apple still has great potential in the cell phone market.

Mr. Tortora is raising his rating for Apple from "Neutral Weight" to "Overweight," and is bumping up his target price to US$105 from $100. Apple stock is currently trading in the pre-market at $85.96, up 0.55 (0.64%).

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