Although Apple says that Mac OS X’s official release date is tomorrow, MacCentral has heard from numerous readers who have already picked up the new operating system from dealers. Many MacCentral readers have also received confirmation that the copies of Mac OS X they ordered from the Apple Store are en route.
Mac OS X has been in manufacturing since early this month, and Apple has delivered many copies to Mac retailers around the globe. Although retailers are not supposed to set out their supplies until tomorrow, some have either not abided by Apple’s embargo or were not aware of the restriction. Users with connections at some retailers have also been able to get their hands on copies from inside sources.
Many retailers are also planning Mac OS X launch parties for midnight tonight, to get copies of the new OS into Mac fans’ hands as soon as is legitimately possible.
Some lucky Mac OS X hunters also have been able to find copies already set out on store shelves at Staples, the office supply retail superstore. Staples has not made the software universally available, however — some Staples personnel have asked buyers to return tomorrow to pick up their copies.