[okcando]

I would consider it part of laptops and desktops, for which macOS is essential.

[skrowl]

People who are upgrading to new Macs aren't doing it to get a new version of macOS, they're doing it to get the new hardware bits.

[okcando]

Yes but macOS is a large part of the appeal of getting a Mac in the first place and Macs have really healthy margins for the industry, ergo it's making money and isn't free as such. It plus seven years or so of upgrades are built into the price.

They also do not directly sell iOS or its upgrades but we'd hardly say iOS isn't making money.

[robbrown451]

No but when I need a new laptop (soon), it doesn't look like it will be mac this time (as it has been for the last 15 years).

[p1necone]

I doubt most consumers see the hardware in the mac and the software installed on it as two disparate products.