[Discussion] Windows Insiders can now preview new Apple apps, replacing iTunes

[Uncrowned Guard]

Windows users, it's time to say goodbye to iTunes. Apple has announced that it will be releasing new versions of Apple Music, Apple TV, and Apple Devices apps for Windows users in the Microsoft Store. This move comes as a surprise for Windows users who have been relying on iTunes for their local media libraries, device backups, and subscriptions to Apple Music.

After discontinuing iTunes for macOS in 2019, Apple split the app's functionality into four different apps, namely Music, Podcasts, TV, and Books. Windows users, however, were left with the option of using iTunes, which has been receiving minor updates to maintain compatibility with Apple's devices and services. But now, Windows users will finally be able to access the same functionality and services as macOS users through the new Apple Music, Apple TV, and Apple Devices apps.

The new apps will handle iTunes' music and video functionality, and provide access to the Apple Music and Apple TV+ subscription services. The Apple Devices app will allow users to make local device backups, perform emergency software updates, and sync local media, among other things. However, it's worth noting that if you install any of these three apps, you will no longer be able to use iTunes. So, if you still rely on iTunes for anything specific that the apps don't handle, you may want to hold off on upgrading for now.

On the downside, podcasts and audiobooks on Windows PCs will be inaccessible until a compatible version of iTunes is released. This suggests that Apple is working on a version of iTunes that can run alongside the new apps, and that iTunes may continue to handle some features in the absence of official Windows versions

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