iTunes 11.1 arrives ahead of iOS 7, with iTunes Radio in tow
Apple pushed out a new version of iTunes on Wednesday morning, just ahead of when the company is expected to roll out iOS 7. The software, version 11.1, brings iTunes Radio -- Apple's new streaming music service. That service, which was first shown off at the Worldwide Developers Conference back in June, is also arriving as part of iOS 7, as well as with an update to the Apple TV set-top box. Along with iTunes Radio, the update adds a new "genius shuffle" mode that Apple promotes as a "magical new way to experience your music library." Choose Genius Shuffle and iTunes instantly plays songs that go great together. Click it again to hear something new -- enjoying your music has never been this easy.Other new features include a way to make "stations" of podcasts that are updated when new episodes are published, and that sync through Apple's Podcasts apps on iOS, along with support for syncing iOS 7 devices.Apple first began beta testing this update to developers near the end of June. The iTunes Radio service itself remains US-only, for now. See also: How Apple's iTunes Radio will rock the world
Monday, March 23, 2015
iTunes 11.0.3 update beefs up MiniPlayer's album art
iTunes 11.0.3 update beefs up MiniPlayer's album art
A new update to iTunes on Thursday adds two new features to Apple's MiniPlayer and improves performance for users with large libraries.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadVersion 11.0.3, which went out as a free update on Mac and PC, has a new feature that lets you tweak the MiniPlayer to show album art with the player controls hidden. When you mouse over the player, the controls fade back into view. It also brings back the MiniPlayer progress bar, one of a handful of features Apple took out in the jump to iTunes 11. Other changes include now showing album art in the songs view and putting multiple disc albums together as one album when in album view. Apple also says the update improves search performance and sorting when a library is "large." Apple's last iTunes update came back in February and added a new "composers" view and sped up syncing large playlists. You can see the changes to the MiniPlayer in the animated GIF below:
A new update to iTunes on Thursday adds two new features to Apple's MiniPlayer and improves performance for users with large libraries.Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)The 404 Podcast 498: Where Jeff battles the TriadVersion 11.0.3, which went out as a free update on Mac and PC, has a new feature that lets you tweak the MiniPlayer to show album art with the player controls hidden. When you mouse over the player, the controls fade back into view. It also brings back the MiniPlayer progress bar, one of a handful of features Apple took out in the jump to iTunes 11. Other changes include now showing album art in the songs view and putting multiple disc albums together as one album when in album view. Apple also says the update improves search performance and sorting when a library is "large." Apple's last iTunes update came back in February and added a new "composers" view and sped up syncing large playlists. You can see the changes to the MiniPlayer in the animated GIF below:
iTunes 11 surprise- Apple sneaks in a gift card scanner
iTunes 11 surprise: Apple sneaks in a gift card scanner
One unadvertised feature in Apple's just-released iTunes 11 lets users tap into their built-in video camera to redeem gift cards and other promotional codes.The feature, which Apple did not demonstrate at the software's unveiling in September or in subsequent marketing materials, can pull out the alphanumeric codes and submit them. This means you can redeem a code without having to type it in, though that option remains if the software is unable to pick it up.In order to use the feature, the promotional code must be from gift cards that place the code within a square box, something that freebie app and content cards from places like Starbucks do not currently include. The feature also only works on Macs, and not Windows at the moment.Despite the addition, Apple's iTunes and App Store for iOS continue to require users to manually type in the codes. (via Macrumors)This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.PlayUpdated at 12:45 p.m. PT to note that the feature is only present in the Mac version of iTunes 11.
One unadvertised feature in Apple's just-released iTunes 11 lets users tap into their built-in video camera to redeem gift cards and other promotional codes.The feature, which Apple did not demonstrate at the software's unveiling in September or in subsequent marketing materials, can pull out the alphanumeric codes and submit them. This means you can redeem a code without having to type it in, though that option remains if the software is unable to pick it up.In order to use the feature, the promotional code must be from gift cards that place the code within a square box, something that freebie app and content cards from places like Starbucks do not currently include. The feature also only works on Macs, and not Windows at the moment.Despite the addition, Apple's iTunes and App Store for iOS continue to require users to manually type in the codes. (via Macrumors)This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.PlayUpdated at 12:45 p.m. PT to note that the feature is only present in the Mac version of iTunes 11.
iTunes 11 may include iOS 6 support, iCloud integration
iTunes 11 may include iOS 6 support, iCloud integration
Apple is working on the next major upgrade of iTunes, including iOS 6 support and greater integration with iCloud, according to a 9to5Mac report.The iTunes 11 build includes a dedicated iCloud settings panel, allowing users to control iCloud features and content from within iTunes, 9to5Mac reported. The site reports that the development it has seen so far has been focused on mechanics but that cosmetic updates are likely to come later. Apple, which has been working on the upgrade for months, recently seeded an internal beta, according to the report.The site also reports that we can expect a major revamp of the iTunes Store and App Store this summer or fall. 9to5Mac notes that Apple reportedly purchased mobile-application search and discovery company Chomp to bolster the search and recommendation features in the App Store.Chomp, which launched in early 2010 as an alternate search tool for sifting through Apple's App Store, provides results based on an app's function, instead of its name.
Apple is working on the next major upgrade of iTunes, including iOS 6 support and greater integration with iCloud, according to a 9to5Mac report.The iTunes 11 build includes a dedicated iCloud settings panel, allowing users to control iCloud features and content from within iTunes, 9to5Mac reported. The site reports that the development it has seen so far has been focused on mechanics but that cosmetic updates are likely to come later. Apple, which has been working on the upgrade for months, recently seeded an internal beta, according to the report.The site also reports that we can expect a major revamp of the iTunes Store and App Store this summer or fall. 9to5Mac notes that Apple reportedly purchased mobile-application search and discovery company Chomp to bolster the search and recommendation features in the App Store.Chomp, which launched in early 2010 as an alternate search tool for sifting through Apple's App Store, provides results based on an app's function, instead of its name.
iTunes 11 launch imminent, says music firm
iTunes 11 launch imminent, says music firm
Apple may be gearing up to launch the next-generation iTunes 11 software "within the next days," according to a report by MacRumors, citing a German music distribution service.Germany-based Feiyr emailed artists to submit high-resolution imagery for the music player's new layout, saying Apple will release iTunes 11 in the coming days. "Users have the possibility to view picture and galleries to every artist in iTunes," says the email.Related stories:iTunes 11 delayed into 'end of November'Apple reworks, simplifies iTunes While the email isn't a direct communiqué from Apple, it's possible that Apple is warning music distribution firms and artists to get their submissions complete ahead of the launch to avoid a sea of blank spaces in the software's new graphically-focused user interface. It follows an Apple statement late last month asking customers for more time to develop the software, pushing back the release date to the end of November.At an Apple media event in September, a spokesperson for the Cupertino, Calif.-based technology giant said: "The new iTunes is taking longer than expected and we wanted to take a little extra time to get it right."iTunes will come with an entirely revamped user interface, Facebook and Twitter integration, and deeper iCloud support. iTunes 11 will remove failed music-focused social network Ping.
Apple may be gearing up to launch the next-generation iTunes 11 software "within the next days," according to a report by MacRumors, citing a German music distribution service.Germany-based Feiyr emailed artists to submit high-resolution imagery for the music player's new layout, saying Apple will release iTunes 11 in the coming days. "Users have the possibility to view picture and galleries to every artist in iTunes," says the email.Related stories:iTunes 11 delayed into 'end of November'Apple reworks, simplifies iTunes While the email isn't a direct communiqué from Apple, it's possible that Apple is warning music distribution firms and artists to get their submissions complete ahead of the launch to avoid a sea of blank spaces in the software's new graphically-focused user interface. It follows an Apple statement late last month asking customers for more time to develop the software, pushing back the release date to the end of November.At an Apple media event in September, a spokesperson for the Cupertino, Calif.-based technology giant said: "The new iTunes is taking longer than expected and we wanted to take a little extra time to get it right."iTunes will come with an entirely revamped user interface, Facebook and Twitter integration, and deeper iCloud support. iTunes 11 will remove failed music-focused social network Ping.
Social.fm rolls out fancy looking Facebook app, DIY widgets for everyone else
Social.fm rolls out fancy looking Facebook app, DIY widgets for everyone else
One thing Social.FM does really well (as it should) is serve up good music. There are some high-quality tracks on here, and a lot of it is surprisingly not just run-of-the-mill studio cuts, but radio appearances or professionally recorded live performances. One of my big beefs with Qloud was that the entirety of the content was coming from YouTube, and there was no way to really dig in to try to get better versions of a song. Facebook users get the added benefit of being able to share their listening habits with others, as listening to a track will publish to your mini feed, and music your friends are listening to will show up in the main news feed if they've got the app installed. Social.FM is serving up two versions of the widget, one that's a Facebook app, and another that you can plug into any social networking service or site that can handle Adobe Flash embeds, like MySpace, Friendster, and Xanga. You can also stick it on your blog or Web site, which I've done after the break. The company tells me they're working on integrating better with Google's OpenSocial initiative to make their non-Facebook version a little more robust. They're also working on adding a recommendation feature that will let you share a song you're listening to with any user, similar to what some of the other Facebook music apps have done.
One thing Social.FM does really well (as it should) is serve up good music. There are some high-quality tracks on here, and a lot of it is surprisingly not just run-of-the-mill studio cuts, but radio appearances or professionally recorded live performances. One of my big beefs with Qloud was that the entirety of the content was coming from YouTube, and there was no way to really dig in to try to get better versions of a song. Facebook users get the added benefit of being able to share their listening habits with others, as listening to a track will publish to your mini feed, and music your friends are listening to will show up in the main news feed if they've got the app installed. Social.FM is serving up two versions of the widget, one that's a Facebook app, and another that you can plug into any social networking service or site that can handle Adobe Flash embeds, like MySpace, Friendster, and Xanga. You can also stick it on your blog or Web site, which I've done after the break. The company tells me they're working on integrating better with Google's OpenSocial initiative to make their non-Facebook version a little more robust. They're also working on adding a recommendation feature that will let you share a song you're listening to with any user, similar to what some of the other Facebook music apps have done.
Review- DLO HomeDock HD, last of a dying breed-
Review: DLO HomeDock HD, last of a dying breed?
Even in their heyday, iPod video accessories have always been a tough sell due to the inherent limitations of iPod video resolution. The boom in high-definition TV sales over the past few years hasn't helped the cause either. Upscaled or not, who wants to watch the iPod's default 320x240 video resolution on their 40-inch plasma TV? DLO's HomeDock HD makes a valiant effort to pull the iPod video dock back from the brink of extinction, offering HDMI output, iPod Touch support, an RF remote with a 75-foot range, and built-in video upscaling. Too bad it costs $30 more than an Apple TV and is only half as useful. I mean, if the point is to get your iTunes media library on your high definition TV, why not cut out the go-between (the iPod), save some money, and get the added benefit of hard drive storage and media streaming?To be fair, there is a market for the DLO HomeDock HD: folks who aren't wired for Wi-Fi or Ethernet (I sometimes have to remind myself these people exist) or have standard definition televisions not supported by Apple TV. Maybe I'm crazy, but that doesn't sound like a consumer who's ready to throw $250 on an AV iPod dock.To find out more, read my full review of the DLO HomeDock HD over on CNET Reviews.
Even in their heyday, iPod video accessories have always been a tough sell due to the inherent limitations of iPod video resolution. The boom in high-definition TV sales over the past few years hasn't helped the cause either. Upscaled or not, who wants to watch the iPod's default 320x240 video resolution on their 40-inch plasma TV? DLO's HomeDock HD makes a valiant effort to pull the iPod video dock back from the brink of extinction, offering HDMI output, iPod Touch support, an RF remote with a 75-foot range, and built-in video upscaling. Too bad it costs $30 more than an Apple TV and is only half as useful. I mean, if the point is to get your iTunes media library on your high definition TV, why not cut out the go-between (the iPod), save some money, and get the added benefit of hard drive storage and media streaming?To be fair, there is a market for the DLO HomeDock HD: folks who aren't wired for Wi-Fi or Ethernet (I sometimes have to remind myself these people exist) or have standard definition televisions not supported by Apple TV. Maybe I'm crazy, but that doesn't sound like a consumer who's ready to throw $250 on an AV iPod dock.To find out more, read my full review of the DLO HomeDock HD over on CNET Reviews.
Opt out of Apple's iAds data collection for iOS 4 devices
Opt out of Apple's iAds data collection for iOS 4 devices
Apple has started distributing its iAds advertising content in participating App Store apps using data that has been collected from iTunes accounts and analyzed to customize your consumption experience. If you no longer want Apple to collect your data, opting out is simple.Apple has partnered with several big-name brands to provide content-based, personalized advertising solutions to your iOS-enabled devices. Apple "uses cookies and other technologies in mobile advertising services to control the number of times you see a given ad, deliver ads that relate to your interests, and measure the effectiveness of ad campaigns."While opting out of the iAd data collection program will stop Apple from collecting and analyzing data from your iTunes account habits, apps that take advantage of the iAd program will continue to show iAds--but they may be less relevant to you. iAd advertisements will still use data from individual apps to determine which ads are shown, though your personal data will no longer be used.Keep in mind that you will need to have iOS 4 installed to opt out of the iAd data collection and you must opt out from each iOS device you own. Opting out also does not affect other Internet-based advertising that may be incorporated into apps.To opt out, simply navigate to the following link on your iOS 4 device: https://oo.apple.com/If you receive an error message, "Unsuccessful Opt Out," you may need to wait a few hours and try again.
Apple has started distributing its iAds advertising content in participating App Store apps using data that has been collected from iTunes accounts and analyzed to customize your consumption experience. If you no longer want Apple to collect your data, opting out is simple.Apple has partnered with several big-name brands to provide content-based, personalized advertising solutions to your iOS-enabled devices. Apple "uses cookies and other technologies in mobile advertising services to control the number of times you see a given ad, deliver ads that relate to your interests, and measure the effectiveness of ad campaigns."While opting out of the iAd data collection program will stop Apple from collecting and analyzing data from your iTunes account habits, apps that take advantage of the iAd program will continue to show iAds--but they may be less relevant to you. iAd advertisements will still use data from individual apps to determine which ads are shown, though your personal data will no longer be used.Keep in mind that you will need to have iOS 4 installed to opt out of the iAd data collection and you must opt out from each iOS device you own. Opting out also does not affect other Internet-based advertising that may be incorporated into apps.To opt out, simply navigate to the following link on your iOS 4 device: https://oo.apple.com/If you receive an error message, "Unsuccessful Opt Out," you may need to wait a few hours and try again.
iPhone OS 3.0- The new podcast controls
iPhone OS 3.0: The new podcast controls
Adjustable scrub speed If you've ever tried to jump forward or back in a podcast (meaning dragging the scrubber across the timeline), you know it's virtually impossible to hit the spot you want. OS 3.0 fine-tunes the scrub controls: tap and hold the position marker, then slowly drag your finger down to access different scrub speeds: high-speed, half-speed, quarter-speed, and finally "fine." Now you can drag the marker left and right to hit the spot you want. It sounds a little tricky, but it's immediately intuitive once you try it.30-second rewind Taking a page from TiVo, the new 30-second rewind button instantly jumps back half a minute to replay something you missed.?iPhone OS 3.0 adds some handy new features for podcast and audiobook listeners.E-mail sharing A couple of months ago, This American Life (best podcast ever) did a killer show called "Bad Bank." While listening, I remember thinking I had to share it with friends and family. Too bad I didn't have OS 3.0 at the time: the new e-mail icon makes it a snap to send a podcast's iTunes link to one or more recipients.Playback speed selector Apple liberated this handy setting from the Settings menu. Just tap the icon to cycle between half-speed, normal, and 2x playback.Good stuff, no? As someone who listens to equal amounts of podcasts and music, I'm loving these little tweaks.What about you? What iPod-oriented OS 3.0 features are you enjoying? (If you're not sure what others are in there, check out Donald Bell's overview of iPod updates.)
Adjustable scrub speed If you've ever tried to jump forward or back in a podcast (meaning dragging the scrubber across the timeline), you know it's virtually impossible to hit the spot you want. OS 3.0 fine-tunes the scrub controls: tap and hold the position marker, then slowly drag your finger down to access different scrub speeds: high-speed, half-speed, quarter-speed, and finally "fine." Now you can drag the marker left and right to hit the spot you want. It sounds a little tricky, but it's immediately intuitive once you try it.30-second rewind Taking a page from TiVo, the new 30-second rewind button instantly jumps back half a minute to replay something you missed.?iPhone OS 3.0 adds some handy new features for podcast and audiobook listeners.E-mail sharing A couple of months ago, This American Life (best podcast ever) did a killer show called "Bad Bank." While listening, I remember thinking I had to share it with friends and family. Too bad I didn't have OS 3.0 at the time: the new e-mail icon makes it a snap to send a podcast's iTunes link to one or more recipients.Playback speed selector Apple liberated this handy setting from the Settings menu. Just tap the icon to cycle between half-speed, normal, and 2x playback.Good stuff, no? As someone who listens to equal amounts of podcasts and music, I'm loving these little tweaks.What about you? What iPod-oriented OS 3.0 features are you enjoying? (If you're not sure what others are in there, check out Donald Bell's overview of iPod updates.)
HP MediaSmart TV marketeer nimble on his flacking toes
HP MediaSmart TV marketeer nimble on his flacking toes
In a heretofore-unseen display of marketing agility, and before he was even halfway done reading the memo, the flack jumped into a point-for-point breakdown of why the external Apple TV is inferior to the value and functionality of HP's MediaSmart TVs. With MediaSmart you get the PC connectivity functionality built into a 1080p display, but with Apple TV, he cited, you still need the screen, and it will support output up to only 720p. He also pointed to out that while Apple TV will, naturally, play iTunes Store content, the movie selection is limited to about 300 titles, and all from one studio. With HP partnering with CinemaNow, you can download more than 4,000 titles from multiple movie houses directly to a MediaSmart television.For myself, I like the idea of both, at least based on what I've heard. AppleTV has the benefit of letting you hook it up to any screen you want to, while 1080p output gives the MediaSmart TV the quality edge. I can even see a situation in which you'd connect the Apple TV to a MediaSmart TV, or a similar home network-aware TV. In that scenario, everyone's a winner.
In a heretofore-unseen display of marketing agility, and before he was even halfway done reading the memo, the flack jumped into a point-for-point breakdown of why the external Apple TV is inferior to the value and functionality of HP's MediaSmart TVs. With MediaSmart you get the PC connectivity functionality built into a 1080p display, but with Apple TV, he cited, you still need the screen, and it will support output up to only 720p. He also pointed to out that while Apple TV will, naturally, play iTunes Store content, the movie selection is limited to about 300 titles, and all from one studio. With HP partnering with CinemaNow, you can download more than 4,000 titles from multiple movie houses directly to a MediaSmart television.For myself, I like the idea of both, at least based on what I've heard. AppleTV has the benefit of letting you hook it up to any screen you want to, while 1080p output gives the MediaSmart TV the quality edge. I can even see a situation in which you'd connect the Apple TV to a MediaSmart TV, or a similar home network-aware TV. In that scenario, everyone's a winner.
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