Apple vs. Google is a fair fight (so far)

The competitive juices may be flowing between Google and Apple these days on any number of fronts, but it has not yet reached the point of Apple vs. Microsoft or Bush vs. Gore.

Not all that long ago, Apple and Google seemed to be the best of bosom buddies, with a full measure of positive interactions and even linked boards of directors. Looked like BFF was the order of the day. Lately that joyous tableau has undergone some changes, making the varnish look like it is crackling a little. They have competing browsers, Safari and Chrome. They have competing cell phone operating systems, Android and iPhone OS 3.0. Google is even fleshing out Android to be a full-bore operating system like OS X, although just for notebooks for now.

There is probably more competition in the works, with Google trying to get involved in the online music business. That’s what the brief tussle about buying start-up Lala was about last week. Both of these companies are innovators and can be very aggressive tactically. They are both prone to buying smaller companies for their technology, as noted in a PC World article. Since they have similar interests, including growing into new revenue areas, they will sometimes be competing during those acquisition attempts, such as they were with Lala and AdMob.

But none of those issues are likely to turn into all-out war in the foreseeable future. Both Google and Apple are companies with class and are not overly given to negative advertising or strategy. Both have dug solidly into their various niches and are looking around for different markets in which to make their mark. Sometimes, they will look at the same markets and even compete in them. It’s difficult, though, to see fireworks and histrionics in their shared futures. Both seem to have a knack for ethical behavior and and make their moves with a studied panache. Hand grenades probably need not apply.

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