As users spotted on Reddit on Monday, it turns out Apple has quietly released another version of iTunes (12.6.3) with the older features. The company says it is released this version because “certain business partners might still need to use iTunes to install apps.” Users report that this version of iTunes is working on individual computers just as fine.
“If you’ve already installed a newer version of iTunes, you can download this version of iTunes on your Mac, PC 32-bit or PC 64-bit and run the installer,” the description of 12.6.3 reads. “After installation is complete, you can continue to deploy apps with iTunes. You won’t be prompted to download new versions of iTunes after you install this version.”
Apple notes that iTunes 12.6.3 is unsupported, and that the company only provides assistance for the latest version of iTunes. The company suggests that enterprise customers rely on Volume Purchase Program, and the Apple Configurator for enterprise environments.
As noted on a new Apple support page, iTunes 12.6.3 installation packages are now available for Mac and PC users. Though Apple says these versions are for businesses, anyone can download them.
I downloaded it and the only options were to quit or update to the new app-less version! The older version can’t read the new versions files.
Hopefully Apple will fix this!
Sticking with 12.6.2 version. I need the ability to manage my iOS apps through it and will not switch until Apple provides a new ‘app store’ that handles everything. This means my intended purchases of a new iWatch and iPhone are on hold. I am not updating to either High Sierra or iOS11. Apple will have to do better to pry that money from my hand. And as time passes, I am finding it easier to hold onto my cash. I might wait till next year to purchase! Not good for Apple but OK for me.
I will continue with an older version myself. The majority of users now rarely need to manage their apps and buy and install directly from their device. For us dinosaurs, we too will eventually have to give up if we want to backup our devices on our PC.
@sgmah:disqus
I had the same issue. After re-installing iTunes 12.6 …
The previous library can be found here:
– C:UsersMusiciTunesPrevious iTunes LibrariesiTunes Library 201X-XX-XX.itl
– Copy the file to C:UsersMusiciTunes