Tech NewsApple’s new iPod announcement is finished, and the new version of iTunes is out! The download is available on Apple’s website. Here’s a basic overview of some of the updates on the Windows platform.
First of all, unmentioned at the actual event, is the new jump list in Windows 7. The only tasks on the list are going to and searching the iTunes Store, but it’s a start. If you hover over the icon in the taskbar, you’ll see a Windows Media Player-esque preview of the window and play/pause and skip controls. Simple updates, but they really help the integration into Windows 7.
Apple also refreshed the entire UI to iTunes on Windows. It holds the same design aesthetic as the older versions, but is lighter overall. The dark background in the album view is now white, and the aluminum parts have a shine, much like the new line of iPod Nanos and Shuffles.
I don’t particularly like the new look. I was hoping for something more like Safari 4 on Windows that takes advantage of Aero glass effects, but that clearly won’t be happening in this revision.
I haven’t had too much time to look at the functionality yet, but one interesting change to device syncing is the ability to select specific artists and genres to sync with your iPod or iPhone. According to the announcement, you will also be able to manage apps for your iPhone or iPod Touch, but that’s something I won’t be able to test out.
What’s the same in iTunes 9? To be honest, pretty much everything. The functionality is essentially the same as it was for the past few versions, with only minor additions. Managing music and movies hasn’t changed, and cover flow is still pretty useless. While I’m sure that there are some great new features, it’ll probably take some time using the software to really discover them.
Is there something important that you think I missed, or do your think I’m completely wrong? Let me know in the comments.
