Apple Steps Up OS X Introduction

Apple Computer Inc. has started installing its new operating system software on all new machines for consumers, two months earlier than originally planned. The new software, called OS X, is the first completely rewritten operating system for Apple since the Macintosh computer was introduced in 1984.

Apple also said its first two retail stores, in Glendale and McLean, Va., generated a combined $599,000 in sales over the weekend after opening Saturday. Apple shares closed up 3 cents at $23.56 on Nasdaq.