Like everyone else, Apple is abandoning operating systems that no longer receive support, and Windows XP and Windows Vista are next.
The company will no longer allow computers running either operating system to connect to the iTunes Store starting May 25, as newer platforms are required.
Apple explains that security improvements introduced for the iTunes Store prevent older Windows computers from connecting, and the only solution is to upgrade to a newer version.
Windows 7 or later is required to download content from the iTunes Store.
"You can continue to use previous versions of iTunes on your Windows computer without support from Apple. However, you will not be able to make new purchases from the iTunes Store or repeat your previous purchases on that computer," Apple explains.
On the other hand, not everyone is ready to make the transition with statistics showing that Windows XP runs on more than 4% of devices worldwide, although many of them are still used by companies and organizations.
In this case, moving to newer Windows is a more complicated process that involves dealing with hardware and software compatibility issues and which often results in system upgrades that are quite expensive.
Apple has also announced that the same security changes will prevent the first-generation Apple TV from connecting to the iTunes Store. There will be no updates for this device, as the company is no longer betting on it.
