Impact of Agreement

These are some of the ramifications of the IBM-Apple agreement:

* Possible Losers--The agreement directly challenges Microsoft Corp., the dominant provider of software for IBM and Apple, by potentially removing an enormous market for that company. The agreement also challenges the competitive strength of leading chip maker Intel Corp., workstation manufacturer Sun Microsystems Inc., and personal computer maker Compaq Computer Corp., which have been influential in trying to set standards that others must follow to sell their products.

* Consumer Products--The companies say new products resulting from the alliance are expected within the next few years. Industry analysts say the first result is likely to be new software that can be used by both IBM and Apple machines. But the products likely will include fancier, speedier personal computers that will appeal to a broader array of customers.

* Antitrust Implications--Apple and IBM account for 40% of the personal computer market and their combined muscle led to speculation that other manufacturers would object to the technology-sharing agreement on antitrust grounds. The Justice Department is reviewing the pact, but industry experts said they do not believe it will be challenged.