OS X Mountain Lion to be only available from the App Store.

Apple surprised the world, last week, when they announced the upcoming operating software for their Mac range of computers. This new OS, OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion brings a range of apps from iOS to Macs, which includes Messages, better iCloud integration, Notes, Reminders, Notification Centre and a host of other features, which almost bridges the gap between iOS and OS X. As reported earlier, a range of older Apple computers would not support this new operating software and the latest bit of information about Mountain Lion is that one cannot purchase it using a USB stick.

In the past, one could upgrade their Apple devices using a USB stick, but with the introduction of Snow Leopard, one could download it straight of the Mac App Store. According to a report by Pocket-lint, they state, “The new update, which is released as a developer preview on Thursday 16 February, means that Apple has finally ditched all form of hard media to distribute all its operating systems and is likely to spell the end of the DVD disk for software in the future.”

The report states that Apple had been concerned about switching their software updates to be available only as a digital download and hence offered their current OS, Lion to be available for download through their Mac App Store as well as installed through a USB stick. But with a successful response to their digital option for purchasing Lion, they have scrapped plans to release it on a USB stick as well. Apple have stated, “It was an interesting test, but it turns out the App Store was just fine for getting the new OS.”

The report goes on to add, “Apple says that it has virtually shipped more than19 million copies of the current operating system, Lion, to date, with a 30 per cent uptake from Snow Leopard users, suggesting the digital download path has been a successful one.”

The Apple software update for the Lion through the USB stick is available for purchase for $69, while the same thing can be purchased online for $29.99. This becomes more feasible for those looking to upgrade, instead of spending more than double the amount.