Edible Apple

In a clear message to Palm, Apple yesterday put up a support doc noting future iTunes updates might break compatibility with third-party media players such as the Palm Pre.

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.

In response, former Apple executive Lynn Fox, who now heads up Palm PR had this to say:

“Palm’s media sync works with the current version of iTunes. If Apple chooses to disable media sync in a future version of iTunes, it will be a direct blow to their users who will be deprived of a seamless synchronization experience. However, people will have options. They can stay with the iTunes version that works to sync their music on their Pre, they can transfer the music via USB, and there are other third-party applications we could consider.”

Seriously?  What’s interesting is that Palm is acting like a small start-up, as opposed to a company that’s been around the block a few times.  Does Palm really expect Apple to keep on allowing the Pre to sync up with iTunes indefinitely?  Should Apple test each future iTunes update to ensure that it’s still compatible with the Pre?  That’s ridiculous.

It’s also funny that Fox notes that if media sync is no longer available between the Pre and iTunes, that Apple’s users will suffer a “direct blow.”  I may not be a big and bad PR executive, but I’m smart enough to know that it’s the other way around.