Apple preparing iPhone and iPod touch to be iTunes remote control

Stephen Withers
Monday, 30 June 2008 07:27

Business IT - Technology

A developer build of iTunes 7.7 indicates that the ability to control iTunes playback from an iPhone or iPod touch will soon arrive. It's been no secret that Apple has had a vision for using touchscreen handheld devices as remote controllers.

The prerelease version of iTunes 7.7, made available to developers late last week, includes a preference setting "Look for iPhone & iPod touch Remotes" according to a screen grab published by MacRumors.

According to MacRumors and other sources, the new iTunes installer's Read Me notes include:

Use iTunes 7.7 to sync music, video, and more with iPhone 3G, and download applications from the iTunes Store exclusively designed for iPhone and iPod touch with software version 2.0 or later. Also use the new Remote application for iPhone or iPod touch to control iTunes playback from anywhere in your home -- a free download from the App Store.

The reference to "anywhere in your home" implies that the Remote application will communicate with Macs and PCs running iTunes via Wi-Fi.

While there is no current indication that Apple will also support the use of the devices as remote controls for the Apple TV, that might be an attractive option for some users. Apple's hardware remote is very small - 8.3 x 3.2 x 0.8 cm - and therefore even more easily mislaid between the sofa cushions than a typical remote control.

The idea of providing additional iPhone and iPod touch functionality through free downloads from the App Store sounds like a smart move on Apple's part. Not only will it allow the company to deliver new features without requiring full upgrades of the devices' firmware, it also gets owners used to using the App Store.

If they get into the habit of checking for free add-ons, there's more chance to sell them something while they are there.

Why are some new features free when others come with a pricetag? See page 2.