Microsoft wants an iTunes Windows 8 app but Apple isn't liking the idea

It will come as no surprise that Microsoft wants Apple to create a Windows 8 app of iTunes, the popular media player that also helps consumers manage iOS hardware and more. A desktop version of iTunes is available and works well in desktop mode on a Windows 8 machine, but what if you're running Windows RT or would like to enjoy a native experience?

So what's preventing an iTunes being listed on the Windows Store? Apple, according to CNN Money. Tami Reller, chief financial officer of Microsoft's Windows division, had the following to comment on the situation:

"You shouldn't expect an iTunes app on Windows 8 any time soon. ITunes is in high demand. The welcome mat has been laid out. It's not for lack of trying."

The Verge has added that iTunes is one of the most searched for apps on the Windows 8 Store, leading Microsoft to actively attempt to secure a native app for its consumer base. So what would a Windows 8 app bring to the platform? A native experience for a start, along with the ability to run on hardware powered by Windows RT.

A touch-friendly experience for those with such an interface would put Apple's media player on the same level as Microsoft's own Xbox Music. The desktop mode is useful, especially if you have a mouse (or similar pointer device) at hand, but it can prove trick to use iTunes with the finger.

So why isn't Apple in a hurry to get an app developed for Microsoft's new desktop UI? It could well be Windows 8 is a competitor to its own OSX and the company already has a desktop version available. It's hard to say when Apple will look to introduce a native app for windows 8, but is the desktop version enough? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Source: CNN Money, via: iMore, The Verge

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.