iTunes

Regularly backing up your iPhone to iCloud or iTunes is likely routine for most, but making an archived backup on iTunes probably isn't. The difference between the two is that an archived backup won't be overwritten by subsequent backups, which isn't the case with iCloud backups or automatic iTunes backups. Though usually not necessary, archiving a backup is essential if you plan to install an iOS public beta or if you think you might want to downgrade after installing a new iOS.

Tidal is already facing a class action lawsuit for promising fans that Kanye West's The Life of Pablo would never appear on any other streaming services, even though it now is available on both Apple Music and Spotify. Now another alleged Tidal exclusive, Beyoncé’s Lemonade, is available on iTunes for Apple users to download. Amazon has also confirmed it will selling both digital and physical copies of the new album.

Now that Apple TV supports apps, many App Store features that iPhone and iPad owners have become accustomed to can be accessed on tvOS. Top Charts, Search and others will look familiar, however there are some differences. For one, app promo codes or iTunes gift cards cannot be redeemed directly on the Apple TV. Instead, follow these steps to redeem using an iOS device or using iTunes on a computer.

Apple has announced the end of its iTunes Allowances service, and has recommended Family Sharing and Gift Cards as an aleternative way for iOS users to send and recieve Apple-related gifts. iTunes Allowances allowed parents to give children monthly credit to spend on the App Store and iTunes purchases. For example, a parent could assign a $10 per month allowance to their child's iTunes account. The recipient could then use the assigned credit until it ran out and wait for it to refresh the following month.

Holiday shoppers can take advantage of an Apple promotion running until December 28. The company is delivering a $60 iTunes / Apple Music gift card to anyone purchasing Beats headphones or speakers. Several products are included in the promotion, and buyers of qualifying Beats hardware will receive their $60 gift card at checkout. The limited-time offer is available at the Apple store online and Apple retail locations.