Rumor claims boxed software on the way out for Apple Stores
The Mac App Store is Apple’s new online service where customers can purchase applications for their computer in the same way that they buy apps for their iPhone and iPad at the iTunes-based App Store.
While the idea of offering customers software downloads instead of retail boxes sounds enticing because it reduces packaging waste and frees up shelf space for other products, it may not be practical for some companies. Adobe, for example, doesn’t offer versions of its Creative Suite applications through the Mac App Store and isn’t likely to build special versions of titles like Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign for Apple’s online store.
Pulling boxed software from the stores also stops Apple from being a one-stop-shop for customers that want to purchase titles on disc for business or as gifts.
Since Apple hasn’t confirmed that it really is switching to download-only sales for software titles, word of the plan should be treated for now as an unsubstantiated rumor.