My in-laws have been using Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) computers forever. I have been using Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) Windows-based machines, because most of our software and that of our engineering consultants was not supported on Macs. This extended to our home/studio. Well, a few years ago my daughter (remember, the iPhone enthusiast?) got an Apple notebook, then my wife did, then six months ago my 11 year old got one. iMacs are taking over the house.

Apple has made a lot of strides in the past 18 months to make all this switching much more easy. From using Intel processors, to adopting Windows options, to improving the operating system and already having the historically superior machine in terms of stability, anti-virus environment, better graphics and sound integration and more innovation on all levels.

So what does the Microsoft-based Windows PC offer me? As far as I can figure out, there are two advantages. The first is price: Apple charges extra for the cool factor, as it does with everything it produces. Although you have to give Apple credit for innovation and its R&D efforts, that has a cost. Microsoft is not known for innovation. The second thing a Windows PC offers is the greater number of programs available. The second attribute is bound to change as more and more people buy Macs and software companies and developers look to grow with that end of the market.

After nearly a year of speculation, Apple (AAPL) seems poised to announce its much-speculated movie store as a part of iTunes. Apple Insider has learned that the co-founder of Apple Computer, Steve Jobs, plans this September 12th to "summon the worldwide media to a special event next week in which he'll usher in a new chapter in the company's digital media strategy."

Along with the likely push towards a bigger screen, Jobs is also rumored to likely announce new iMacs and a much-anticipated update to the iPod nano. The question is: will Jobs' introduce a new player for the movies so users don't have to get a crick in their neck watching the tiny screen? AppleInsider reports that Apple has quietly developed a video streaming device that will interface with an updated version of its iTunes Jukebox software.

Whatever Jobs' does announce, look for him to go after the competition (Microsoft, Sandisk, and now Samsung) with a new iPod nano and surprise everyone, as only he can, with the company's movie plans.