iTunes 7.1 runs on Vista

Apple has posted an update on the compatibility of its iTunes software with Microsoft's Windows Vista operating system, noting that a new version of iTunes addresses numerous compatibility issues with Vista but that the Cupertino-based company is actively working with Microsoft to resolve a few remaining known issues. Apple recommends using iTunes 7.1 with most editions of Windows Vista, and suggests that users who are upgrading from Windows XP or Windows 2000 to Windows Vista prior to the next release of iTunes take several steps to improve the experience when syncing an iPod or playing iTunes Store purchases. Apple encourages upgrading users to deauthorize all iTunes Store accounts, perform a clean install of Windows Vista, upgrade to iTunes 7.1 or repair iTunes 7.1 if version 7.1 is already installed, open iTunes, and choose "Authorize Computer" from the "Store" menu. [updated]

Known compatibility issues that still remain in iTunes 7.1 when running under Windows Vista include the possibility of corrupting an iPod when ejecting the device from Windows Explorer or the Windows notification area (system tray) using the "Safely Remove Hardware" feature. Apple notes that to safely eject an iPod users should choose "Eject iPod" from the Controls menu within iTunes, and adds that users can restore corrupted iPods to working condition by selecting the player in iTunes and clicking "Restore."

iTunes may display text or graphics incorrectly on the screen, but resizing the iTunes window should correct the issue, according to Apple. Contacts from Windows Address Book may not sync with iPods in iTunes 7.1, and the software remains unsupported on 64-bit editions of Windows -- including Windows Vista and Windows XP x64.

by MacNN Staff