How you update iTunes on Windows depends on where you got it. If you installed iTunes from the Microsoft Store (the most common version), open the Microsoft Store, click Library, and click Get updates. If you downloaded iTunes from Apple’s website, open iTunes and choose Help > Check for Updates, or run Apple Software Update from the Start menu.
On Windows 10 and 11, Apple also offers separate Apple Music, Apple TV, and Apple Devices apps that replace most of iTunes. Here’s how to update each version and what to do if an update fails.
How to tell which iTunes version you have
Open iTunes and click Help. If you see Check for Updates, you have the version from Apple’s website. If that option is missing, you have the Microsoft Store version.
Update the Microsoft Store version
- Open the Microsoft Store app.
- Click Library in the bottom-left corner.
- Click Get updates. If an iTunes update is available, it downloads and installs automatically.
The Store usually updates apps automatically in the background. Make sure App updates is on in the Store’s settings (click your profile picture > Settings).
Update the version from Apple’s website
- Open iTunes.
- Click Help > Check for Updates.
- Follow the prompts to install the latest version.
You can also open Apple Software Update from the Start menu, check the iTunes update, and click Install.
iTunes vs. Apple’s newer apps
| Task | Newer app |
|---|---|
| Music and podcasts | Apple Music |
| Movies and TV shows | Apple TV |
| Backing up, updating, and syncing an iPhone or iPad | Apple Devices |
These apps are in the Microsoft Store. Once you install them, iTunes may only open podcasts and audiobooks. You can keep using iTunes if you prefer it.
iTunes won’t update? Try these fixes
- Restart your PC and try again.
- Update Windows in Settings > Windows Update. Newer iTunes versions require a recent version of Windows.
- Repair or reset the app: For the Store version, go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, click the three dots next to iTunes > Advanced options > Repair.
- Reinstall iTunes: Uninstall it, then install the Microsoft Store version. Your music library stays in your Music folder.
- Sign in to the Microsoft Store if updates won’t download.
On an old PC, see making iTunes the default player in Windows 7.
Frequently asked questions
Is iTunes still available for Windows?
Yes. iTunes for Windows is still available from the Microsoft Store and Apple’s website, alongside the newer Apple apps.
Will updating iTunes delete my music?
No. Updates keep your library. Back up your iTunes folder if you’re worried.
How do I update my iPhone with iTunes on Windows?
Connect the iPhone, click the phone icon in iTunes (or open Apple Devices), and click Check for Update.
What version of iTunes do I have?
Click Help > About iTunes.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.