Call me skeptic or simply too contented with my ever trusted Jaguar (OS X 10.2.x), but I've just recently upgraded to Panther (OS X 10.3.5) -- a few months before the release of upcoming Tiger (OS X 10.4).
Why the sudden switch? I've been modifying my Jaguar a bit (in the past) just to make it look like Panther. Beyond the looks, Panther have several things that are way beyond just modifying the Jaguar.
1. More Stable SMB Connectivity
The reason why I refuse to upgrade to the Panther (before) is the connectivity with Windows network -- which is very important in connecting with our office network servers. I don't want to shell out cash to buy third party utilities (like DAVE) just to address the flaw of the upgrade. Not until OS X 10.3.5 came along. ;-)
2. Exposé
Works like a charm! Very helpful especially when I need to copy or move files from one location to another location or application.
3. Added Security
The need to prompt for your password everytime the Mac wakes up from a sleep works best especially if you're using a notebook computer (iBooks and PowerBooks).
4. File Vault
More security. I haven't use this feature yet, but I would love to have the ability to encrypt my precious files when needed. Again, more protection than before.
5. Finder Enhancement
Its now easier to locate and navigate using the new Finder (not even to mention how faster it is to search for a file).
I can live without the rest of what Panther has to offer, but the five features that made me switch are compelling enough to have the black feline as my current OS. Until the Tiger release, I hope to enjoy everything what Panther has to offer. ;-)
W
