Vista and iTunes Update

Q:
Do you have any new information on the whole Vista and iTunes compatibility issue? You said you would keep us updated, but I haven't heard anything else about it lately. Just curious!

A:
You're absolutely right! I did tell you awhile back that I would keep you all informed about the Vista and iTunes situation. And well, I'm not one to break a promise, so that's what I'm going to do for you today. I do have to apologize though, because this information may be a little outdated. After I wrote the first tip, I kept checking back, but nothing new came. So, I concentrated on other tips in the meantime and it wasn't until I received this question that I went back to it and low and behold, there's some new info! Let's take a look, shall we? I know several of you have been anxious to find out what's going on!

First of all, the first part of this has to do with another tip I wrote a few weeks ago. Apple released a new version of the iTunes software called iTunes 7.1.1. This version was created to deal with a lot of the compatibility issues that came about between iTunes and the new Windows Vista operating system. iTunes 7.1.1 can be used with other operating systems as well, but it's mostly recommended for Vista.

The 7.1.1 version addresses several of the issues that the earlier versions of iTunes had with Vista. Now, while most of the problems have been ironed out, there are still a few that remain. This usually happens with just about any new program though, so don't panic too much. At least you now know which version of iTunes you should be using. Also, Apple is still working with Microsoft to fix the additional problems, but until that's all figured out, you can still use iTunes 7.1.1 with assurance!

In case you're wondering what some of the remaining issues with Vista are, they include:

* If you use the Safely Remove Hardware icon to eject your iPod, you may corrupt your iPod player. Microsoft is now working on a fix for this, but until then, Apple suggests that you always eject your iPod by going to the Controls menu within iTunes and selecting the Eject iPod choice. That way, you know you won't be harming your iPod in the process.

* In Windows Vista, you may see some odd text or graphics on your iTunes screen. Microsoft is still trying to get all of those panned out as well, but if you go ahead and resize the iTunes window you're working in, the problem should correct itself.

* For some reason, the Contact Groups from the Windows Vista Contacts feature will not sync right with any iPods yet. Until this issue is corrected, you just won't be able to use that.

* If you have a 64 bit edition of Windows, iTunes will not work. iTunes is still unsupported with those editions, which include Windows Vista and even XP x64.

Now, if you haven't upgraded to Windows Vista yet, but you're getting ready to soon, there are a few things you may want to do to prepare yourself. If you follow the steps below, you will have an easier time syncing your iPod or playing your songs in iTunes once you are upgraded.

1.) First, you'll need to deauthorize all your iTunes store accounts. To do so, open iTunes and from the Store menu, go to Deauthorize Computer. Choose the Deauthorize Computer for Apple Account option and then enter in your Apple ID and password. You can read here for more information on getting this done.

2.) When you have that finished, go ahead and do a fresh install of Windows Vista. If you already have Vista on your computer, it's recommended that you do a clean install, but it's not required.

3.) Next, you'll want to download the iTunes 7.1.1 version. You can do that from this link.

4.) After all that's done, open iTunes.

5.) Go to the Store menu and then choose the Authorize Computer option. This will get you set back up and you'll finally be ready to use iTunes with Vista.

So, even though there are a few things still hanging up Vista and iTunes, most of the problems have been worked out. At least now you can trust iTunes enough to use it with your new operating system. That means no more waiting! You can enjoy your music once again, without any of the extra hassle!

~ Erin