Apple's release of its latest version of the iTunes software for Macs on January 10 promised "stability and performance improvements" over the 6.0.1 version already in existence. It also included a new iTunes MiniStore feature that "watches" what you click on your library or playlist and, when you double-click on a selection to play it, changes its display to reflect "matches" you might consider purchasing. This means that iTunes 6.0.2 is sending your now-playing information to an outside server.When Sony did that, we consumers screamed bloody murder.In Apple's defense, the "feature" is easily defeated by hiding the MiniStore (shift/command/M or Edit: Hide MiniStore). Once the MiniStore window is gone, the computer stops reporting your data. However, privacy advocates have expressed concern over the lack of an End User Licensing Agreement (EULA) notification that such reporting was activated. This strikes many, even hard-core Apple enthusiasts, as questionable behavior if not outright disregard for consumer rights.Apple says that no data are being collected, that once consumers have been offered "you may also like" information, the slate is wiped clean. We're sure that's true, but we won't ever hit "update" on an Apple program again without wondering what the company isn't telling us. That's not the way to build customer loyalty or consumer trust.
