Palm Pre owners in the US were dealt a significant blow recently when Apple decided to scrap a feature in its iTunes software that allowed the Pre device to “sync” with it, a feature that Palm used to heavily market the device.
But Palm has hit back, with a software update now allowing the device to once again connect with the iTunes software and transfer files to and from the device.
The Palm WebOS1.1 update also introduces new “swiping” features for the Pre’s touchscreen, as well as new features regarding Microsoft Exchange email support.
Apple has declined to comment on this latest development, but it is likely looking for another solution to block third-party devices using the iTunes software. Recent changes to its iTunes terms and conditions said support was not given for devices not manufactured by Apple.
“Apple designs the hardware and software to provide seamless integration of the iPhone and iPod with iTunes, the iTunes Store, and tens of thousands of apps on the App Store. Apple is aware that some third-parties claim that their digital media players are able to sync with Apple software,” Apple says on its website.
“However, Apple does not provide support for, or test for compatibility with, non-Apple digital media players and, because software changes over time, newer versions of Apple’s iTunes software may no longer provide syncing functionality with non-Apple digital media players.”
Patrick Stafford is a freelance journalist and a former deputy editor of SmartCompany.
