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The update, which will probably be released as OS X 10.2.2 within the next month, will include a journaling file system, a disk format that allows far better recovery from crashes than the current version of HFS+.

Journaling technology works by keeping a record of saved data, enabling the OS to recover from crashes that could otherwise corrupt the hard drive. It is commonly used in servers. The Linux

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OS already has journaling systems as an option and Microsoft is working on one for the next major upgrade to Windows XP.

According to sources familiar with the project, codenamed Elvis, it works as an addition to the current HFS+ file system, and will not require users to reformat their hard drives. Journaling will be an option initially available through a command line option. Later revisions will place this switch in a System Preference pane.

Because of additional disk access overheads, Elvis will suffer a performance hit of between 10 to 15 per cent.

The addition of a journaling file system will give Apple more ammunition for an attempt to push its way into the corporate market. Apple has so far focussed on promoting OS X's advantages to consumers through applications like iTunes and iPhoto.

But corporate customers are showing signs of being prepared to abandon Microsoft software when an appropriate alternative arises, because of higher prices.