Apple iTunes tips and tricks Using the iTunes genius sidebar

The genius sidebar is a new addition to iTunes 8 that creates automatic playlists of songs that go well together, as well as suggesting new music that you might like from the iTunes Music Store (you’ll need an iTunes Store account). Here’s how to use it.

Switch Genius on in iTunes

If the Genius Sidebar isn’t showing, click the button with the left-pointing arrow in the bottom-right of the iTunes window. The arrow switches to pointing right and the Sidebar will slide out. Click the Turn on Genius button.

Be aware that Genius sends information about your iTunes library to Apple, though information is anonymous and isn’t linked to your iTunes store account.

Setting up Genius in iTunes

Log into your iTunes Store account. Read the terms and conditions on the next screen carefully and put a tick next to I have read and agree to the Genius Terms and Conditions. Click Continue. Genius will now gather information about your iTunes library (this can take a while).

Using Genius

Once this process has finished, click Music in the Library column to return to your collection and browse for any song. Highlight the song and click the Genius button. Genius will provide you with an automatic playlist of similar songs to the ones you have selected.

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