I agree that Microsoft has been more guilty of vaporware than Apple has. In actuality, Steve Jobs had begun consulting with Apple before this purchase. The purchase of NeXT was the best thing that could have happened. I had used NeXTStep/OpenStep while working for AT&T;and, I loved it. I was very happy when I found out about this purchase. In a way, NeXT took over Apple instead of the other way around.
February 4, 1997: Apple Buys NeXT
Reflections on 25 Years, Does Apple Still Matter?