Apple products are incredibly innovative on their own, but they do have one weak spot: Their software. Failing to update the software on your Apple devices can bring trouble, so it is recommended to always install the newest version available.
This issue persists across the entire software lineup by Apple, with iTunes being one of the less affected programs. iTunes tends to run smoothly in most of its versions, only adding new features and changing up its style from time to time.
iTunes is not just a music library and player for your computer. It is also a dedicated device management center essential to anyone who owns an iPhone or iPod. Here we show you how to make sure you are running the latest version of iTunes.
How can I check if my iTunes is up to date?
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Step 1: Open iTunes on your computer
Whether you are on a Mac or a PC, the first thing you need to do to confirm iTunes is updated is to open it.
Running the program will prompt the home screen showing the music library, and you can even notice if it is outdated by looking at the interface.
For example, users can tell if their iTunes version is old if the software’s icon does not have the current multicolor design. If it is red or worse, blue, your iTunes needs an update.
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Step 2: Check for Updates on iTunes
If you need an update, worry not. There are quick and simple ways to check for updates from the most reliable source, Apple.
At the top of the screen, iTunes shows its menu bar. It looks different in Windows and MacOS, showing Help and iTunes as the last item of the menu respectively.
Click on either Help or iTunes depending on your operating system, and you will see an option near the bottom of the submenu that says ‘Check for Updates,’ and that’s it.
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Step 3: Update iTunes
iTunes should prompt an analysis window that says ‘Checking for updates’ once you select the former option. If the program is not the latest build, it will show a notification message saying a new version is available.
The most recent iTunes release is 12.5.3 on both Mac and PC. The new window will offer users two options: Download iTunes or Don’t Download.
Clicking the Download button will prompt a new window from Apple Software Update to confirm your intentions and also show you what you are about to install.
The process should take a few seconds or minutes depending on your internet speed. Once installed, the latest iTunes version will be available for you to enjoy.
iTunes System Requirements and Features
iTunes is not a demanding software, and it is characterized by being easy to use and light on storage space.
To run an optimum version of iTunes capable of playing HD video and more, minimum requirements in a machine include an Intel Core Duo 2.4 GHz processor, 2 GB of RAM, 400 MB of free storage, and a NVIDIA GeForce 8300 GS or better.
iTunes 12 comes with a stylized interface enhanced for music streaming. The general music library is available along with other standard functions, but it also packs Apple Music, iTunes in the Cloud, Apple Music Radio, and iTunes Match built-in in supporting countries.
Source: Apple