Apple launches Safari browser for PC

Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) will ship a version for its Safari browser that works on the PC, a piece of real estate that has been owned by Microsoft's (NASDAQ: MSFT) Internet Explorer and is on the Windows operating system.

One analyst told (subscription required) The Wall Street Journal that the news was not a big deal: "Overall it was a disappointment," said Gene Munster, an analyst at Piper Jaffray. But, to a large extent, that depends on what Apple's goals are.

The browser serves a number of functions aside from being the PC portal to the Internet. Several new Microsoft versions incorporate the company's search technology, and important part of its competition with Google (NASDAQ : GOOG). If Apple uses eventually uses Google for that function, it could further advance their lead in search.

Windows Internet Explorer also contains other Microsoft products like Window Messenger. Computers with the Safari browser would not have easy access to that.

Apple's initiative may be small, for now, but with Mac sales growing adding a Windows version of its browser further helps Apple to expand into an areas that has been owned by Microsoft and the PC manufacturers.

Douglas A. McIntyre is a partner at 24/7 Wall St.