If you've been a longtime Apple user, you might have noticed some changes recently that have left you scratching your head. One of the biggest shifts is the move from iTunes to the TV app, and to many users, it feels like a step backward. Is it just you, or has anyone else noticed that the TV app is far worse than iTunes ever was?
First things first, let's talk about iTunes. For many Apple fans, iTunes was more than just a music player. It was a hub for all your media needs - music, movies, TV shows, podcasts, and more. It was a one-stop shop where you could buy, organize, and enjoy your content seamlessly. Plus, it had a familiar layout that many users had grown accustomed to over the years.
Now, enter the TV app. With the release of macOS Catalina, iTunes was officially split into three separate apps: Music, Podcasts, and TV. While the separation makes sense in terms of streamlining functionality, the TV app in particular has left many users feeling underwhelmed.
One of the main gripes with the TV app is its organization. It lacks the robust categorization and sorting options that iTunes offered. With iTunes, you could easily create playlists, categorize your media library, and customize your viewing experience. The TV app, on the other hand, feels more restrictive and less user-friendly in this regard.
Furthermore, the TV app seems to prioritize Apple's own content over everything else. While iTunes allowed you to seamlessly integrate your personal library with purchased content, the TV app pushes Apple's subscription services like Apple TV+ front and center. This shift in focus may not sit well with users who prefer to curate their own media collections.
Another area where the TV app falls short is device synchronization. With iTunes, you could easily sync your media across all your Apple devices, ensuring a seamless experience no matter where you were. The TV app, however, doesn't offer the same level of synchronization, making it more cumbersome to access your content on different devices.
Despite these drawbacks, it's worth noting that the TV app does have some positive aspects. Its improved search functionality and recommendation algorithms make it easier to discover new content that you might enjoy. Additionally, the integration of Apple TV+ exclusive content could be appealing to users who are subscribers to the service.
In conclusion, while the TV app has its merits, many longtime Apple users can't help but feel that it pales in comparison to the versatile and user-friendly nature of iTunes. The shift from iTunes to the TV app may take some getting used to, but hopefully, Apple will continue to listen to user feedback and improve the app over time.