Apple takes first step to iCloud with iTunes 'upgrade'

After announcing its foray into cloud computing, Apple Inc. has started upgrading its software to use the cloud, starting with its iTunes program. The new "iTunes in the Cloud beta" software claims to let users download new music, apps, and buy book on their Apple devices wirelessly and without syncing. "Say your coworker just recommended a new song. You download it on your computer at work, but on the ride home, you’re wishing you had that song on your iPod touch, too. Regardless of where you click or tap Buy, iTunes can automatically download your new songs, apps, and books to all your other devices over Wi-Fi or 3G. It even works with the new iBookstore on your Mac or PC. So you can browse and purchase books on the big screen and start reading them right away on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch," it said in its iTunes page. Earlier versions of iTunes had been the bridge between computers running Apple's Mac OS X or Microsoft's Windows operating systems, and Apple mobile devices such as iPods, iPads, and iPhones. Apple said the new iTunes software even lets a user access his or her purchase history so he or she can download what he or she wants. "That way, if you don’t want your iPad to automatically download everything you buy on your iPhone, just choose the things you do want to download — song by song, app by app, or book by book," it said. The new iTunes is expected to work with iCloud, Apple's cloud computing platform. But an article on CNET said users may have to wait for iTunes 10.5 and Mac OS X Lion to fully experience iCloud's features. — VS, GMA News