iTunes Download Update: Ver. 12 Release Date, Specs & Features

Earlier in July, Apple has released the iTunes 12 for developers with a revamped design suited for the upcoming OS X Yosemite.

A series of improvements in the Yosemite beta eventually followed. Last month, an updated version was released. The update immediately succeeded the unveiling of iOS 8 Golden Master, wrote 9to5Mac.

A total makeover of the iTunes was released nearly two years ago BY Apple in the form of iTunes 11 -- but Macworld reported that the system was not very well-patronized. Users reportedly sticked to iTunes 10.7.

iTunes 11 was a drastic measure taken by the Cupertino-based tech giant.

According to CNET, Apple ditched seven features of the iTunes 11, including the Cover Flow (replaced by a new album view), the built-in duplicate-removing tool, the iTunes DJ, the gapless playback feature, multitasking via different windows and easy access to volume controls.

Now Apple has released the latest redesigned version of the iTunes, as told by Apple Insider. Drawing inspiration from the highly-anticipated operating system OS X 10.10 Yosemite, the new iTunes interface appears to be flat-looking. The outlet added that it resembles its July 2014 beta version.

The big question now is whether or not this current version for developers is close to the real iTunes 12.

Nobody knows, but it's time to know which features are present in the current beta. First, the "flatness" stems from the fact that the visual elements providing a three-dimensional depth to the system are no longer present.

Gizmodo wrote that crisp lines and bold, solid colors are preferred by Apple this time. The site mentioned that the current version certainly took cues from the iOS 7. Although regressive on this note, such move hints how Apple adheres to its trademark of simplicity and how it gives importance to previously-loved outputs.

The new design is applied to Music, Movie, TV Show and App pages. MacRumors added that the current beta also included improved playlists, a redesigned Info Window and a new icon. Macworld said the new icon is a shift from a bluish to reddish hue.

Another new offering is the Family Sharing feature. Macworld defined in another report that this feature allows sharing of anything (apps, music or movies) purchased from the iTunes Store between six people. A member who buys "Dothraki Companion," for example, can share the app to five other persons. It's one for all!

The iPad Air 2, iPad Mini 3, new Retina Macs and the OS X Yosemite are rumored to launch on Apple's event. No news on iTunes 12 though, but still, watch it live here.