Open Source iPod Plugin Opens the Door for WinAmp

A new plugnin for WinAmp called Mlipod has been released and proclaimed the software that sets the iPod free. Or more likely, yet another lawsuit for Apple to kick-off.

“The plug-in, called ml_iPod, allows iPod users to bypass iTunes and manage music collections in Winamp instead. The iPod is supposed to work with iTunes only. A new version of the software was released Monday. Justin Frankel, creator of Winamp and the open-source peer-to-peer software Gnutella, initially developed ml_iPod, but programming was taken over by Will Fisher, a computer science student in the U.K.

“Fisher and other developers programmed a slew of features, including the ability to synch multiple iPods with Winamp, create smart playlists and — the most useful option — the ability to copy songs from an iPod onto a hard drive. “A lot of the feedback I get is people thanking me for freeing them from iTunes,” said Fisher. “It shows the dissatisfaction people have with iTunes.” Apple Computer did not respond to several requests for comment.

“To prevent iPod users from easily copying vast libraries of songs from computer to computer, Apple forbids tracks from being moved off the iPod — songs can only be put onto the iPod. In addition, each iPod is associated with a single copy of iTunes. The association can be changed, but only if all songs on the iPod are erased.” Source: Wired Online