Songbird for Linux vs Apple Inc.

[ClaireCape]

I use Ubuntu 99% of the time, even when running XP through Virtual Box in order to use certain accounting programs.

But when it comes to iTunes and easily and quickly managing my iPod, I have to reboot into Vista.

I wanted to change this, and so checked up on how the development of Songbird was coming along; and I was impressed. It pretty much looks like iTunes, but is far better to use as a music player. I connected my iPod nano (1st gen) and was able to manage and transfer music perfectly (after installing the add-on).

But when I plugged in my new iPod touch (2ng gen), nothing happened. I investigated and was told this by one of the Songbird team members:


Unfortunately due to Apple being an incredibly anti-competitive company, its not legal for POTI to support some of the new ones (like the iPod touch), because doing so would require breaking encryption (and therefore breaking DMCA laws).


Does anyone have any thoughts on this? Insider knowledge? I am not against iTunes - I just use it to manage my iPod... but the problem is that Apple does not make a Linux version...

 

[d0b33]

Yeah I wrote to Apple about this, you can use the itunes feedback page to complain because Apple are making it diifficult for users like myself who love their iPhones but use Linux.

For the time being you can experiment wth Virtualbox and iTunes(If you can get the USB to work) or an older version of iTunes with Wine.

 

[ClaireCape]

Thanks for your views.

On you suggestion, I just sent my feedback to Apple regarding iTunes. If anyone else would like to request a Linux iTunes, or to allow Linux applications (like Songbird) to port to the new encrypted iPods, then send your feedback here:

http://www.apple.com/feedback/itunesapp.html