Apple moves away from iTunes on PC with new Windows apps

Apple is officially launching its Apple TV, Apple Music, Apple Devices apps on Windows this week. The apps originally launched in preview last year, but Apple has now removed the preview tag after working with Microsoft to launch the apps.

According to MacRumors, the trio of apps, in combination with an overhauled iCloud for Windows apps, is designed to move Windows users away from their reliance on iTunes. iTunes is only required for access to podcasts and audiobooks on Windows if you use Apple TV, Apple Music, and Apple devices.

The Apple Music app provides song and album purchases, as well as access to the iTunes library. Apple TV also lets Windows users watch subscription streaming content as well as movies and TV shows from their iTunes library. Apple Devices lets PC owners back up or restore iPhones and iPads, as well as sync content across those devices.

Microsoft is working with Apple on apps, and even welcomed their launch this week. Microsoft also previously introduced iCloud Photo integration in Windows, enabling the ability to link iCloud Photo Library directly to the built-in Photos app on Windows 11.

Apple's new Windows apps are only available on traditional x86-based PCs running Windows 10 or Windows 11, and there's no sign yet about an ARM64 version for Qualcomm-powered Windows devices.