Could Vista corrupt iPods?

Apple has warned Windows users running its iTunes software that they should wait for its next update before upgrading their PCs to Microsoft's new Windows Vista operating system.

The company cited a variety of compatibility issues that may cause friction between the media player software, its accompanying iPod player and Vista. Among these problems is an inability to play music or video purchased from the iTunes Store, problems synchronising address book contact and calendar functions, and slowed runtime. Additionally, there is a chance that plugging an iPod into a computer running Vista may corrupt the device.

Windows Vista, Microsoft's first new operating system in five years, was launched last week to consumers and is now standard on most new PCs from computer manufacturers. The enterprise version of Vista has been used by businesses since November.

The problems may not affect all Windows users, according to Apple, but they are serious enough that the company does not recommend PC owners install Vista just yet. Within the next few weeks, Apple plans to release a new version of its iTunes software that was designed primarily to address the Vista compatibility issues. When the release is available, the synchronisation issues should disappear. For the time being, a special support page is available.

The Mac maker said in a company statement: "Although iTunes 7.0.2 may work with Windows Vista on many typical PCs, Apple is aware of some known compatibility issues and recommends that iTunes customers wait to upgrade to Windows Vista until after the next release of iTunes, which will be available in the next few weeks." Apple declined further comment.

Caroline McCarthy writes for CNET News.com