14 DAY TRIAL // CrispSofties' iPod.iTunes application has just been updated to version 4.0.5 adding compatibility with Mac OS X 10.5.4 (Leopard). The software does real "add-synchronization," according to the developers, even in two directions if the user wishes so. A demo version is available.
iPod.iTunes comes in extremely handy as it evaluates the source for songs, videos and/or playlists that are not in the target and only adds those, seamlessly. This avoids duplicates. Also, iPod.iTunes can transfer song dependent data like 'My Rating', 'Last Played', 'Play Count', album artwork, etc. As iTunes users should know, Apple's application generally does not delete content in the target.
Some of the main advantages of using iPod.iTunes include:
- Superior iTunes integration including playlists and meta data. - 8 synchronization modes in 2 directions (from iPod to iTunes and from iTunes to iPod). - Option to copy songs manually if you don't want to synchronize all. iPod.iTunes presents missing songs/videos directly in iTunes! You can inspect/listen to songs and videos before you choose to copy them. - Songs and playlists can be synchronized together or separately. - Supported formats: MP3, AAC/MP4, Protected AAC (iTunes Music Store), Audible audio books, Podcasts, Apple Lossless, Video. - Copies seamlessly to existing songs in the iTunes music folder (or any other folder). - Creates a date&time-stamped playlist in iTunes with a reference to the copied songs. - Supports Windows-formatted iPods. - Support for the iPod's "On The Go" playlist.
As noted above, the new version of the synchronization software adds compatibility for Apple's latest Mac OS X release, 10.5.4. iPod.iTunes 4.0.5 also fixes a "Check for Update" issue, namely the "grey button."
Requirements call for a Mac with an Intel, G3, G4 or G5 processor, iTunes 4.2 or later and a formatted iPod. The software costs $39 to buy, but you can try out iPod.iTunes without registering, although until you register, the application skips about 50% of tracks/playlists during synchronization.