iTunes is a software application that Apple launched in 2001 to help users organize its music collection. In the 18 years since, the software has been extended to add a download store, movies, TV shows, podcasts and phone management. Over time, iTunes became one of the most bloated pieces of software on the phone.
Not anymore! A new report by Bloomberg previewing next week's Apple World Wide Developer Conference notes that Apple plans to phase out iTunes for a more modern approach. The report reads:
iTunes has been the way Apple users listen to music, watch movies and TV shows, hear podcasts, and manage their devices for almost two decades. This year, Apple is finally ready to move into a new era. The company is launching a trio of new apps for the Mac – Music, TV, and Podcasts – to replace iTunes. That matches Apple’s media app strategy on iPhones and iPads. Without iTunes, customers can manage their Apple gadgets through the Music app.
It is unclear if the music download store would be affected, as Apple does plan to launch their own TV services. There were rumors last year that Apple planned to phase out paid downloads but I can't imagine that would happen.
A report from 9to5 Mac found leaks in the new MacOS software that showed what the music app looks like and it doesn't seem to have a store attached to it, but that could be because it's an early beta:
We'll keep you posted on Monday when there is more info.
