After mucking about with so many updates for iTunes 9, Apple has finally unveiled iTunes 10 that offers an interface update and a new social network feature called Ping. Oh, and a new logo that basically ditches the CD on the logo, replacing it with a blue circle since iTunes downloads already outsells CDs in the US.
First off, the new interface. Basically, they moved around some things, like the close/minimize buttons (they’re now to the left), and tweaked the looked on minor details like the volume controls. One of the major updates include a new library view that merges the album and list views, with a bar that shows album art for albums you own with more than five songs. Simplified, you won’t see the art for GnR’s Appetite for Destruction album if all you got from it is Sweet Child O’ Mine and Paradise City.
For video rentals, Apple dropped the prices for commercial-free HD TV series down to just $0.99 per episode that you download. The selection might be a bit limited at first, with only ABC, Fox and Disney jumping on the first wagon, but Apple is hoping (expecting?) more networks will be joining the service when it catches on.
The new AirPlay wireless streaming could also be big. Simply put, the new feature will let you stream music from iTunes to compatible wireless speakers without having to plug into the old AirPort accessory. Brands that include JBL, Denon and iHome are said to be working on new products that will support the feature out of the box.
The new Ping feature is the big highlight here, which Steve Jobs simply described as “a combination of Facebook and Twitter, but for music.” Basically, the new social feature lets you follow friends and artists to check out what they’re downloading and listening to, get concert or simple updates from the artists you’re following, or just post or read status updates from the users you’re following. There’s a whole lot more to it than that, but they’re basically par for the course if you’re familiar with how social networks roll.
iTunes 10 is available for download now. Ping already comes free with iTunes 10, so it’s already there if you want to opt into the service. It’ll also be available to iOS device users, including iPhone 4, 3G and 3GS, and iPod touch from the 2G and onwards.
Tags: Apple, iTunes, Ping, Software
