New Standalone App for macOS to Be Like iTunes
Introduction
Apple is reportedly working on a new standalone app for macOS that will bring back some of the features and functionalities of the beloved iTunes. Since Apple phased out iTunes in favor of individual apps like Music, TV, and Podcasts in macOS Catalina, many users have expressed nostalgia for the all-in-one media experience that iTunes provided. This new app is expected to merge some of those functionalities into a streamlined and user-friendly interface.
The Need for a New iTunes-Like App
While Apple’s decision to split iTunes into separate apps was aimed at making media management more focused, it also introduced several challenges:
- Fragmented User Experience: Users who previously enjoyed managing their entire media library in one place now have to juggle multiple apps.
- Syncing and Backup Issues: Many users found that syncing devices and backing up data became more complicated after iTunes was discontinued.
- Loss of iTunes Features: Some popular features like the ability to manage ringtones, edit metadata, and organize large music libraries efficiently were lost or buried in different apps.
To address these concerns, Apple appears to be developing a new app that integrates many of the functionalities that made iTunes so popular while also embracing modern macOS design principles.
Expected Features of the New App
Although Apple has not officially confirmed the specifics, industry insiders suggest that the new standalone macOS app will include:
1. Unified Media Management
This new app will likely bring back the ability to manage music, movies, and podcasts all in one place, providing a seamless experience similar to iTunes.
2. Improved Device Syncing
Users will be able to sync their iPhones, iPads, and iPods more efficiently, with better control over media transfers, backups, and software updates.
3. Enhanced Library Organization
Apple is expected to introduce new tools for organizing large media libraries, including advanced search, smart playlists, and metadata editing options.
4. iCloud Integration
The app will likely have deeper iCloud support, allowing users to access their entire media library across multiple Apple devices without manual syncing.
5. Support for Older iTunes Features
Many fans of iTunes have missed features such as burning CDs, importing media from external sources, and manually managing file libraries. Apple may bring back some of these functionalities.
6. Modern macOS Design
Unlike the older, somewhat bloated iTunes interface, the new app will likely feature a sleek, modern design optimized for macOS Monterey and later versions.
How This App Differs from Apple Music
Apple Music, which replaced iTunes for streaming music, is focused primarily on subscription-based listening. The new standalone app, however, is expected to cater to users who prefer to manage their own media collections rather than relying solely on streaming services.
Release Date and Availability
Although Apple has not announced an official release date, rumors suggest that the app could be introduced in the next major macOS update, potentially during WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference). It may launch as a beta version for developers before rolling out to the general public.
Conclusion
Apple’s decision to introduce a new standalone macOS app with iTunes-like features is a welcome development for many longtime users. By combining the best aspects of iTunes with modern improvements, this new app could provide a more intuitive and efficient media management solution.
As more details emerge, it will be interesting to see how Apple balances nostalgia with innovation to create a tool that meets the needs of both traditional and modern users.
