Tell me more ×
Ask Different is a question and answer site for power users of Apple hardware and software. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote -3 down vote favorite

What might be the idea behind this?

share|improve this question
4  
Hang on, lemme just call Steve. – Loïc Wolff Feb 25 '11 at 13:00
3  
Sorry, I voted to close this question. This is no the place to speculate on Apple's business strategy. And there's no way somebody will have a definite answer. – Loïc Wolff Feb 25 '11 at 13:01
1  
@Loïc Wolff - I can imagine Steve's email response. Something like: "Because they are." – Dan Ray Feb 25 '11 at 13:39
1  
Welcome to Ask Different! We can't answer for Apple's decisions. Answers to this will be based on speculation. Please take a look at the FAQs for more info. Thanks. – Nathan Greenstein♦ Nov 11 '11 at 17:16

closed as not constructive by Nathan Greenstein♦ Nov 11 '11 at 17:16

As it currently stands, this question is not a good fit for our Q&A format. We expect answers to be supported by facts, references, or specific expertise, but this question will likely solicit debate, arguments, polling, or extended discussion. If you feel that this question can be improved and possibly reopened, see the FAQ for guidance.

1 Answer

up vote 7 down vote accepted

First and foremost because they use different protocols.

FaceTime was created as an implementation of a new protocol for video calls. Apple has pledged to release this protocol/format in the future with hopes of other software vendors adopting it so there is opportunity for interoperability.

iChat uses a variety of protocols for chat interaction, most of which were originally designed to carry text as a payload. Video in most cases was something added to these protocols after the fact.

Consider iChat the 'legacy' way of handling video and FaceTime the new way.

share|improve this answer

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.