Consumer Reports (November 2006) conducted a computer reliability survey of "127,800 computers" among their readers and Mac got the top spot. It left behind desktop and laptop models from Compaq, Dell, eMachines, Gateway, HP, Lenovo, Sony, and Toshiba. However, the organization chose to withhold its "Best Buy" stamp of approval from Apple's machines because of its hefty price tag.

Among the criteria that the Mac aced are speakers and expansion. Out of the 77,000 readers surveyed only 11% reported problems with their Macs. Sony PC users experienced more bugs (15%). Gateway desktop PCs got the dubious honor of King of Lemons with 19% of users reporting technical glitches with their machines.

In the laptop category, 18% of the 50,100 respondents reported Apple troubles while Sony received a better (but not significantly different) 15%. As for tech service, Apple's service was +20% ahead the first runner-up despite the company's limited 90-day free warranty and its pricey extended warranty.

It seems that Best Buy's faith in Macs is slowly but surely coming back. Apparently, Best Buy Co. - the nation's largest consumer electronics retailer, is testing the possibility of selling Apple Computer Inc.'s full line of computers in its stores. In an earlier article, we mentioned that some Best Buy outlets are already stocked with the regular MacBook and Pro alongside iMac systems.

Now, Best Buy has added Apple computers in seven stores and it's considering expanding Mac sales across the chain. This was mentioned by Best Buy Senior Vice President for Merchandising David Morrish said at the company's annual meeting on Wednesday. He also added that the test started four weeks ago.

If you could remember during th year 1998, Best Buy stopped selling Apple computers because of slow sales. After which, the Steve Jobs camp began to pull out from other stores as well, only to come back with their own retail operation.

V.P. Morrish also mentioned that the Apple computers will be sold by Best Buy employees who have been trained by Cupertino, Calif.- based Apple. Best Buy wants to see if the computers will be hot commodities and if they will sell in a very profitable manner. They also want to know if their Best Buy employees can provide the level of customer service that Apple customers are used to getting in an Apple store.

It's been revealed that Apple are continuing efforts to promote their recently released Intel-based products by obtaining larger shelf space at Best Buy stores across North America. Samir Bhavnani, an analyst with Current Analysis commented that the stores feature large displays and units of several Apple products.

Although the retailer already stocks a range of Mac Minis and iPods, this move shows Apples confidence in their line of products using an Intel processor. In addition, this initiative signifies a dramatic push to hopefully increase their market share and availability of products.

Best Buy are now also stocking the regular MacBook and Pro alongside iMac systems.