Apple releases iTunes update, includes iOS 7 support, Podcast Stations, Genius Shuffle

Aside from releasing iOS 7 to the market yesterday, Apple has updated its iTunes software to accommodate the new operating system and those who still use their desktop to update their iPhones. The Cupertino-based company also added the new Podcast Station, which lets you create custom stations from podcasts you regularly follow and updates new episodes automatically and syncs playback positions across devices. They also included Genius Shuffle, which puts together songs in your library that Tunes thinks are complementary.

Apple’s Pandora-like streaming service, iTunes Radio, is also included in this update. However, this feature is currently just available for U.S. iTunes account holders.

Google rolls out Chrome 30 for iOS

It’s been less than a week since Google released Chrome 29 for iOS but they had to release a newer version just in time for the iOS 7 debut. Chrome 30 for the iPhone and iPad has been created to match the look of the new OS. There are full-screen improvements, settings section redesign, and better integration with Google Maps and Gmail (if these apps are installed). It is important to note, however, that the minimum iOS requirement for the updated browser is iOS 6.

Facebook unveils new iOS app

The iOS 7 app updates keep rolling in. This time Facebook unveiled its version 6.5 just in time for the new operating system. Some of the new features include a new menu at the bottom of the app to make it easy to navigate through the app. There is also a new “More” tab on the bottom right for access to options such as your Timeline, groups, events, etc. Facebook is also taking some design cues from iOS 7 with a translucent bar on top of the app that changes dynamically as you scroll through posts and photos. 

Amazon’s Kindle app update for iOS 7 lets users group books

Amazon’s Kindle app is introducing its own update for the new iOS 7. A new feature in this version called “Collections” helps you organize your e-book library easily and more to your liking. You can now add your e-books to more than one category. Amazon has also tweaked the design of the app around the themes of “deference, clarity, and depth.” It has flatter-looking controls, a translucent effect, and slide-out menus that combine key controls of the app.