And that’s a wrap

Sep

Posted by Oughtlaw

News, Apple, iPhone, iPod Touch, iTunes

iTunes9

Well I’m not real sure how you couldn’t be satisfied with today’s headlines. Whether you were excited to see Steve back on stage or anxious to download ringtones, I think there was satisfaction spread evenly. Even though we’re not going to get every little detail desired (cameraless iPod Touch), Apple has shot below par by introducing iTunes 9, 3.1 firmware, and new line of iPod Touch’s. Here’s a quick briefing of what you missed encase you couldn’t make it out to Cali for the day.

First up, iTunes 9. With the upgrade available for download today, you will be see changes to help enhance your App Store experience. With an added horizontal navigation bar added to each page, less time is spent jumping from viewing apps to searching for movies. And the best of iTunes 9 is being able to easily manage your apps on your device through iTunes. Additionally, you will now be able to specify what artists, genres, and playlist you would like to automatically sync.

iTunes LP will also be a new face to the community. Here’s Apples take:

“The visual experience of the record album returns with iTunes LP. Get a gorgeous, immersive version of select albums — right in your iTunes library. So while you listen to your favorite songs by your favorite artists, you can also five into beautiful animated lyrics and notes, performance videos, artists and band photos and more.”

Another road Apple has decided to take is selling ringtones. A little late on the draw, but better late then never. However, priced at $1.29, I’m not sure if that will fly or not. With most songs costing $.99, it would be hard pay more for a fraction of a song. But I’m open minded and will wait to see what kind of reaction Apple is given.

The bigger news of the day is the third generation iPod Touch. Unfortunately, no camera is included. However, there are some reasonable tradeoffs. A similar 3.1 update the iPhone will bounce up to will also appear for the Touch. A 50% speed improvement , OpenGL ES 2.0 for improved graphics, Genius App Recommendations, and voice control will be the selling points that drive you to make a step up to the third gen.. Not only will you have the options of the 8GB ($199) and 32GB ($299), but you’ll have a chance to get your hands on the granddaddy of them all, 64GB ($399)!!

iPhone users will also have the option to upgrade to 3.1 firmware. It’s recommended to upgrade iTunes beforehand. And to all you Jailbreakers and unlockers, I would advise to hold up until the coast is clear.