QuickTime 7.6.6, iPhoto 8.1.2 Available for Download

Released as minor updates via Apple’s Support Downloads section, QuickTime 7.6.6 and iPhoto 8.1.2 pack more than one would think just by looking at the short release notes. While iPhoto 8.1.2 addresses minor issues with import and syncing, QuickTime 7.6.6 includes changes that increase reliability, improve compatibility, as well as address multiple security issues.

“This update addresses minor issues in the area of import and syncing to iPhone, iPod or Apple TV,” Apple states, describing the newest iPhoto release. “The update is recommended for all users of iPhoto ’09,” the company explains, directing customers to its Support section for additional info on the update. There, Apple talks more broadly about the import, syncing and compatibility enhancements delivered in iPhoto 8.1.2.

As far as importing content into the application’s library goes, the update resolves an issue that could sometimes cause iPhoto to quit unexpectedly when connecting an iPhone 3GS, the newest iPhone model currently available from Apple. iPhoto 8.1.2 also resolves an issue that prevented an Event thumbnail from being created when an import included only video clips. While Apple seems to suggest that iPhoto only now adds iPod nano support, the company has merely tweaked up the app to make the iPod icon for iPod nano (5th Generation) appear correctly in the Source list.

For syncing, iPhoto 8.1.2 resolves an issue that prevented syncing photos to the iPhone, iPod, or AppleTV if a slideshow in the library used a song containing an ampersand (&) in the filename. Finally, iPad compatibility is provided for importing photos from the iPad to an iPhoto library, as well as syncing photos to the iPad.

QuickTime 7.6.6, released for both Mac OS X and Windows, is recommended for all QuickTime 7 users as it includes changes that increase reliability, improve compatibility and address security. Specifically, the update brings general reliability improvements for iMovie.

For the security side of the software, Apple directs users to its Support area, where technote HT4104 details the vulnerabilities addressed in the media player. Readers are encouraged to update their software using the download links below.

Download iPhoto 8.1.2 Update (Free)

Download QuickTime 7.6.6 (Free)