Apple showed off the next version of OS X at WWDC 08 this week saying it’s going to hit the pause button on new features. Apple says it is going to be focusing on making the OS more compatible with today’s multicore processors using a new technology called Grand Central, which allows applications to spread the load over multiple cores and processors. Its also helps developers create applications that can squeeze more power from these multicore processors.

Apple is also adding a new technology Open CL (Open Computing Language) which gives developers access to the vast power of the GPU. OS X 10.6 will also include out of the box support for Microsoft Exchange 2007 for push email, calendar, and contacts.

QuickTime is also receiving a workover with QuickTime X, a new platform for better media playback. We are also set to see the next iteration of the massively popular Web Safari; Apple says Safari 4 will have the the fastest implementation of JavaScript to date. Apple claims it will run up to 53% faster than the current JavaScript - this will make Web applications run more smoothly.

It seems Apple is committed to fixing the bugs in its operating system and it’s working to polish and perfect it, which brings me to the name Snow Leopard. Not a totally new animal; just a little different.