Apple delays iTunes 11 launch to November

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) will delay the release of its iTunes 11 multimedia software revamp to November, stating it is still tweaking the user experience.

Apple's revamped iTunes 11 is delayed.

Apple previously pledged to release iTunes 11 in October. It is expected to feature a visual redesign inspired by the company's iOS mobile software as well as revamped storefronts, an overhauled mini player designed to simplify media search and deeper integration with the iCloud storage platform. "The new iTunes is taking longer than expected and we wanted to take a little extra time to get it right," Apple spokesman Tom Neumayr said. "We look forward to releasing this new version of iTunes with its dramatically simpler and cleaner interface, and seamless integration with iCloud, before the end of November."

iTunes supports App Store purchases and in-app transactions, as well as sales of digital music, e-books, movies and television programs. Apple maintains 435 million iTunes accounts linked directly to credit cards, up from 225 million in June 2011, and the seamlessness of the iTunes shopping experience is cited as a major catalyst behind the growth of the iOS app ecosystem.

iTunes 11 was expected to arrive roughly a month after the rollout of the new iOS 6. The overhauled operating system includes the much-maligned Apple Maps, which fueled consumer outrage over a host of inaccuracies including missing roads, misplaced landmarks and mislabeled businesses. Apple subsequently issued a public apology for the Maps service--earlier this week, the company announced that Scott Forstall, senior vice president of iOS software, will exit his post next year, with reports indicating he is being forced out over the Maps debacle.

Insiders also say that Apple plans to an ad-supported streaming radio service optimized for iOS devices within the first quarter of 2013. While sources indicate that Apple views the streaming initiative as a way to grow its iAd mobile advertising platform, the company also plans to integrate the service with iTunes to fuel download sales.

For more:
- read this CNet article

Related articles:
Report: Apple launching streaming radio service in 2013
Reports: Apple building streaming radio service for iOS
Forecast: Apple's iOS 6 launch could boost App Store revenues to $5 billion
NPD: Music sales up 4 percent in 2011, fueled by digital downloads
Apple activates App Store Genius recommendations in iOS 6 beta