Apple details changes to iTunes, shows new features in iOS 6

Along with unveiling new hardware today, Apple has announced many changes to iOS and iTunes. The latest version of iOS makes better use of iPhone 5 and iPod touch's new 4-inch 1136x640 display, with many core apps having already been updated. For instance, Safari now has a full screen option, Calendar now shows more events and the home screen has a fifth row of icons.

In addition to real estate-oriented changes, the Maps app now includes a built-in search engine for point of interest, turn-by-turn directions that work whether the device is in landscape or portrait, and a 3D mode takes you on a flyover of 3D models rendered from actual pictures. Photo Stream has simplified the process of sharing pictures, Siri has more movie-related data, Mail has a VIP folder for storing flagged messages, and the Phone app can now automatically send an SMS when you can't answer a call.

Apple's desktop iTunes application has been revamped with mobile-like changes, including an edge-to-edge interface that seamlessly links the store, books, music and videos into one uniform appearance. Every entry in iTunes now has a Facebook Like button, and iCloud is now completely integrated. Clicking on an album expands it in place, much like the way folders work with iOS, and you can preview songs while browsing the store.

Apple has also tweaked the window that displays what's currently playing by adding a drop-down box containing information of upcoming tracks and the new iTunes also features a mini player that provides basic controls in a compact, minimalist interface. The iTunes update will be available in October and iOS 6 will be available as a free download for the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPad 2, iPad 3 and the fourth-gen iPod touch on September 19.

Download iTunes 10.7 for Windows 64-bit, Windows 32-bit or Mac OS X.