Apple has just released iTunes 6.02 and among the new features like Intel compatibility and improved stability and performance is a feature that is generating some controversy. The MiniStore is a tool that will recommend songs to the user. Controversy is swirling around the fact that iTunes will transmit information such as the current song playing to other computers to generate the recommendations. Information is also sent to 2o7.net, a site not owned by Apple but by Omniture, a marketing firm.
According to InformationWeek, the changes in iTunes 6.02 are not covered by the EULA. Essentially, Apple is disclosing information to third parties without the user’s awareness and approval.
Fortunately, the fix is relatively simple: Turn off the MiniStore functionality.