Filed under: Analysis / Opinion, iPod Family, iTS, Software, Apple
iPod Touch (does not) require iTunes account to use
If you're planning to run out and grab an iPod Touch from an Apple Store this weekend (they're on sale there now, doncha know), Deep Thought has an important tip before you go. Before you even get chance one to use your new gadget, Of course it's not that surprising when you think about it (since you'll need an account for the WiFi store for sure), but an account just to use the iPod Touch? A little strange, no? The Touch might not have a contract like the iPhone, but clearly Apple wants you to check in on the signup form before you get to play with your new iPod.
Update: Well, maybe not. Our beloved commenters say this is just plain not true. When setting up the Touch, you can apparently skip making the account, and while obviously you need it for the WiFi store, you don't need it to just use the iPod. Thanks, guys!
Update2: DT has posted a retraction as well. In his defense, as I said in the comments, the original statement that said an account was required came directly from an Apple PDF. Not all of us have the resources or the cash to buy or use one of these things as soon as they're released, but all of us are committed to letting you know about any pitfalls before you spend your hard-earned money on one. If you are planning on buying a Touch, enjoy it, account or not.
[via MacBytes]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Ken said 8:15AM on 9-14-2007
The iTunes account will also be used for updates I would image.
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mrchin said 8:17AM on 9-14-2007
Not true. Set mine up and nothing was needed. If you want to buy something from WiFi, then yeah but not to plug in and use. Just need to sync it once to iTunes to get to menus but no account needed.
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James Donevan said 8:23AM on 9-14-2007
Incorrect reporting. The iTunes set-up has a 'Skip' option. Always a good idea to double check your facts when reporting news.
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R_K said 8:40AM on 9-14-2007
There is no rationale to force using iTunes account for plain usage of the device as it cuts off all those living in countries where iTunes is not available.
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James C. said 8:47AM on 9-14-2007
"(they're on sale there now, doncha know)"
Surely you intended to say "they're FOR sale"?
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jj said 8:55AM on 9-14-2007
well if it doesn't require an iTunes account to use, then the title of this story should be corrected, no? 'Cause we all know how bloggers love to quote other bloggers, then the next thing you know, everyone thinks this is true...
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Michel said 8:59AM on 9-14-2007
OMG ?! apple forces to buy on itunes store to use ipod and drop osx for windows LOL Xd NARF O_O
hum.. double check, okay okay ^^,
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Mary said 9:03AM on 9-14-2007
C'mon guys, even the comments in your source (MacBytes) say that this is not correct
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Naptownman said 9:16AM on 9-14-2007
Weren't we supposed to learn details of the $100 credit plan this week for early iPhone adopters? I know it's off-topic but I haven't seen squat about here or anywhere else and the week is about over.
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caixapostal said 9:31AM on 9-14-2007
Yes, I wouldn't make sense to force having an iTunes account, specially when you don't have a iTMS in every country...
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krye said 9:42AM on 9-14-2007
I though iTunes didn't run under WINE on Linux. How are the linux folks getting around this?
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Antonio said 9:50AM on 9-14-2007
This isn't fair for people like me who live in a place where the iTunes Store isn't even available. But then again, when did Americans ever care about anyone but themselves.
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Angela said 9:59AM on 9-14-2007
"This isn't fair for people like me..."
You mean non-innovative whiners like you?
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eljer said 10:01AM on 9-14-2007
You're right mrchin! iTunes account is only needed if you want to buy music from the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store. I hope that this settles the issue. I'm surprised that even TUAW published an article regarding what you can call a hoax.
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gak said 10:09AM on 9-14-2007
Wow, another completely incorrect/useless story on TUAW... way to go guys! Keep up the good work!
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umijin said 10:20AM on 9-14-2007
WTF - I pre-ordered the Touch within an hour of its announcement (or however long it took for the Apple Store to come back online).
What happened to rewarding those who plunk down their money first?!!
Absolute bullshit.
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DrWho said 10:38AM on 9-14-2007
@#9 Credit details are posted here
http://www.apple.com/iphone/storecredit/
and it is still 'next week'
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Axel said 10:57AM on 9-14-2007
Are you stupid or something?
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Jeff said 10:57AM on 9-14-2007
I think this post should be retracted entirely.
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anflam said 11:30AM on 9-14-2007
what about other international countries that cant use iTS?
For instance, here in Hong Kong, we can't purchase anything with our credit card from iTS....
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