14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has released new versions of iTunes for its Mac and Windows customers, adding a nifty widget for OS X customers looking to control their playback from Notification Center, and support for old video cards on Windows.
iTunes 12.1 is available as a free download for both Mac and Windows users. Apple makes it available through the Mac App Store on Macs, the Software Update mechanism on Windows, and of course as a standalone download. For those of you who are in a rush, here are a couple of direct links: download iTunes for OS X / download iTunes for Windows.
Mac users come first
As you’d expect, Apple is putting more effort into the Mac version of the application, specifically the playback functions. The new version comes with a new widget for Notification Center, which lets you see what’s playing, skip ahead, and even buy music while listening to iTunes Radio, all from Notification Center.
iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch customers should also see some improvements in syncing.
iTunes 12.1 for Windows (64-bit — for older video cards)
A separate iTunes 12.1 build, this time for Windows customers, is also available for download. Apple explains on its Support site that, “This version of iTunes is only for Windows 64 bit systems unable to support iTunes video playback requirements on older video cards. Only install this version of iTunes if you were directed to this page by an alert message from iTunes 12.1 or later.”
Customers are advised to try installing the software using the recommended standard installer from the iTunes page on Apple.com. The Mac maker offers more information about the update procedure on its Support site.
