Mac OS X Server: Apple confirms its disappearance but says it will be back

Regarding yesterday's item on the disappearance of Mac OS X Server from Apple's Web site, John Govsky found that, when he clicked a link (on this page) to the OS X Server page, it instead took him to the Mac OS X client site. He asked Apple about this and they replied: "At this time there is no page for the OS X Server. I am also unable to provide you as to when this will be reposted. As you may know there have been a number of new products posted and the OS X Server is currently not available, but I expect this not remain true for long. You might want to look into AppleShare IP Server instead." Similarly, when David Hatch contacted the Apple Store about purchasing Mac OS X Server, they told him that "OS X Server has been pulled temporarily for updating with a new configuration and should be back up soon." They did not have a definite date but expected it within a few weeks. Personally, we are a bit skeptical about a new release coming soon. It is certainly not Apple's typical policy to remove all trace of a program from their Web site just prior to a new release. Update: You may not be able to buy OS X Server right now, but the OS X Server Web page at least still exists (thanks, Tony Hess) as does the OS X Server Support page (thanks, Phil Brown and Scott Haneda). Ken Goff writes: "I was told by an Apple Store rep that OS X Server was not compatible with the new G4 models and that was why they pulled the product from their site." A source at Apple confirms: "This is correct. There will be a new version of Mac OS X Server which supports the MP G4's." Still, we talked to several sources at the Expo, regarding what all of this might mean. While no one had confirmed information, the consensus belief was that OS X Server as it now exists will be discontinued, to be replaced by server software based on Mac OS X client. Update: Also check out this article for a discussion of problems with Mac OS X Server. (Thanks, Adam Kay.)