Apple released iTunes 11 after delay

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CUPERTINO, Calif., Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Apple has released iTunes 11, the latest version of its music and apps manager, delayed from October due to what Apple called "engineering difficulties."

First released in 2001 as a standard music player, iTunes has grown into a complex program including an App store, a music and movies store and a way to manage iPod, iPhone and iPad devices.

Mac users can obtain the update using Software Update in OSX and users of Windows PCs can have their current iTunes "Check for Updates," Mashable reported Friday.

While the most visible change is a completely overhauled user interface, Apple has also added a new mini-player, a refreshed instant-playlist tool, the ability to recommended songs you might enjoy and expanded use of Apple's iCloud.

Apple fans have been awaiting the new version since Apple announced it in September during its iPhone event it would be released in October.

Just before October passed, Apple announced a delay, saying more time was needed to polish the program.