Apple iTunes Ministore Software Modified after Concern Voiced by Privacy Advocates

A new version of iTunes, released in mid-January, raised concern from privacy advocates when it was found that the software was sending information about computer users' playlists back to its supplier, Apple Computer Inc (Apple). The new software contains a "MiniStore" window which recommends music to iTunes users based on the songs currently in the software's active playlist. In providing the recommendations, the software sends information about those songs back to Apple, but software experts have found that the iTunes software also transmits to Apple a string of data that is linked to a computer user's unique iTunes account ID. Apple expert Kirk McElhearn has been quoted as saying that because iTunes users typically sign up for the music store with an e-mail address and a credit card number, the account ID number could, in theory, be linked to that information, as well as a user's purchase history. In an attempt to address privacy concerns, Apple has now updated the iTunes software so that a notification is added inside the iTunes software itself when the MiniStore is turned on for the first time. The notification states that "As you select items in your library, information about that item is sent to Apple, and the MiniStore will show you related songs or videos. Apple does not keep any information related to the contents of your music library." In addition, the notification also informs the user that the MiniStore feature can be turned off, thereby preventing the exchange of information. For online news stories on this item, visit: http://news.com.com/2102-1029_3-6026542.html; and http://makeashorterlink.com/?O27842F8C Summary by: Katharine McGinnis