Skip to main content

Download iTunes 11.1 beta? You’re missing out on iTunes Radio

itunes tips tricks 11 1
Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you downloaded iTunes 11.1 beta, which was available online before Wednesday’s official release of the new iTunes, you’re going to want to update to the final version to get access to the release’s hot new feature: iTunes Radio.

Impatient as we are, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on iTunes 11.1 and, of course, iOS 7. But when we fired up iTunes this morning, iTunes Radio, Apple’s new streaming music service, wasn’t working quite right. Like Pandora and other streaming radio services, iTunes Radio allows you to create stations based on artist, genre, or song. But when we tried to create a new station, iTunes created exactly zilch.

Recommended Videos

We restarted iTunes, only to find that the iTunes Radio option had disappeared entirely, replaced by an iTunes Match button. Then, for some reason, that disappeared too. In short, we needed to update to the final version of iTunes 11.1. If you downloaded iTunes 11.1 early like we did, you’re probably going to need to update as well. No surprise – this is why you’re not supposed to download beta versions of iTunes – but Apple doesn’t exactly make it obvious that this is necessary.

Clicking the “Check for updates” option under the “iTunes” menu told us that we already had the most up-to-date version – which is sort of true, but not really. Checking updates via the App Store app didn’t help either. So skip those routes – they won’t work. Here’s how to update to the final version of iTunes 11.1 (it’s easy):

1. Close iTunes if it’s open.

2. Go to Apple’s iTunes download website.

3. Click the blue “Download Now” button on the left side.

4. Once it’s downloaded, click the iTunes install icon, and go through the installation process.

5. That’s it! Fire up iTunes, and you’ll see the iTunes Radio option reinstalled.

6. Rock out.

Check back with DT later today for our full hands-on review of iTunes Radio.

Andrew Couts
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Features Editor for Digital Trends, Andrew Couts covers a wide swath of consumer technology topics, with particular focus on…
The best laptops for music production, chosen by experts
best laptops for music production

The world has gone pretty far when it comes to the processing power that we carry around with us, and if you're big into music production, then you're the luckiest of all. Some of the best laptops on the market have high-end CPUs for relatively low prices, which means that if you want to do music production on a laptop, you have a huge number of choices. Of course, that does also mean that it can be hard to navigate and pick the best laptop for your budget and needs, which is why we've done the legwork for you. We've collected our favorite picks below in various categories so that you can pick them with ease. Plus, we've even thrown in a quick guide on what to look for so that if you don't find what you want here, you can check out these other laptop deals for alternatives.
The Best Laptops for Music Production

Best overall laptop for music production:
Best Windows device for music production:
Best portable laptop for music production:
Best large-screen laptop for music production:
Best for 2-in-1 laptop for music production:

Read more
The most common Spotify problems and how to fix them
How to fix common Spotify problems

At any given moment, Spotify stands out as one of the most popular music streaming platforms in the world, attracting millions of listeners who indulge in a diverse array of content, from songs and stand-up comedy to podcasts and audiobooks. With its innovative features like an AI-driven DJ and user-friendly apps available for iOS, Android, and PC, it's no wonder Spotify has become a go-to source for entertainment. However, along with its vast offerings, users can sometimes encounter issues that hinder their listening experience. These can range from minor glitches to more pervasive problems involving your smartphone or headphones.

To enhance your enjoyment and minimize downtime spent troubleshooting, we've compiled a comprehensive guide filled with expert tips and tricks to address the most common Spotify problems. Whether you're dealing with the app crashing unexpectedly, experiencing playback issues, or encountering difficulties connecting to your headphones, we’ve got you covered.

Read more
How to add family members to your Apple Music subscription
Apple Music on a Mac.

Apple Music is among the top streaming services known for its extensive collection of melodic content. With over 88 million subscribers worldwide and a catalog featuring more than 100 million tracks from today’s leading artists, it positions itself as a strong competitor to Spotify, the top music streaming service on the planet.

For those who are new to Apple Music, the service offers a one-month free trial, allowing you to explore its features and vast library without any cost. Following the trial, you can choose between monthly or annual membership plans. The most popular Individual plan is available for $11 per month or $109 per year. This pricing is competitive within the industry, providing a solid value for access to high-quality music and exclusive content.

Read more