Apple iTunes 8.2.1 update disables Palm Pre support

Apple has disabled sync support for non-Apple portable media devices in the latest version of iTunes, version 8.2.1, a move considered by many to be directed at Palm Pre users.

In June, Apple hinted at disabling Palm's third-party plug-in that allowed users to sync their music collections with a Palm Pre, as we reported.

When Apple first threatened to disable the support, a Palm spokesperson told BusinessWeek: "If Apple chooses to disable media sync in iTunes, it will be a direct blow to their users who will be deprived of a seamless synchronization experience," the spokesperson said.

Palm's plug-in allowed users to sync DRM-free music to their Pre device using a USB cable connection. The company announced iTunes support in late May. Palm has yet to respond to the latest changes in iTunes.

In related Palm Pre news, MotionApps, maker of the webOS Classic Palm emulator, is planning a HotSync emulator that will be included free of charge to Classic users. Classic lets users run legacy Palm OS applications, and HotSync enables users to sync their device via the original Palm OS platform HotSync application. [via EngadgetMobile]