Apple Unveils New Version of Macintosh OS

Apple Computer Inc. on Tuesday formally introduced a new version of the Macintosh operating system, hoping to retain the loyalty of its customers as it tries to revive its fortunes.

Also Tuesday, Apple announced it has retained executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles Inc. to help it find a new chief executive to replace Gilbert Amelio, who resigned this month.

Apple said John T. Thompson, vice chairman of Heidrick & Struggles, will lead a search committee to seek a CEO who is “a strong leader and a hands-on manager, with a successful sales and marketing background, established industry knowledge and reputation, and the ability to create, execute and inspire.”

Shares of Apple rose 41 cents to close at $16.56 on Nasdaq.

The Cupertino-based computer maker, which has been struggling with a declining market share, posted a $56-million loss for the quarter ended June 27.

Apple is counting on the OS 8 operating system, which goes on sale Saturday and will be included on new Macintosh machines, to help boost revenue while the company finishes developing another operating system, known as Rhapsody, due out next year. The OS 8 costs $99, but users can get a $30 rebate.

Mac users and industry analysts said the software performs significantly better than the current version.