iPod Software 2.0.1 Released -- Apple has released iPod Software 2.0.1, improving performance and Windows compatibility for 2003 iPod models that feature a dock connector (earlier iPod models remain at version 1.3 of the software). The 2.0.1 update improves playback performance and handling of MP3 Variable Bit Rate (VBR) songs, enhances the alarm clock and On-The-Go playlist, features better support for Asian languages, and fixes problems with sorting by artist and left/right channel swapping. The backlight has been improved so that it doesn't automatically turn off after a few seconds while you're using the iPod. The latest iPod models work on Macs and under Windows, and Windows users will be happy to learn that this update provides the USB 2.0 connectivity (when paired with the separate $20 iPod Dock Connector to FireWire and USB 2.0 cable) that was promised when the new iPods were unveiled. The update also brings support for Audible.com content, the capability to use multiple iPods on one computer, shorter connection times, and better overall performance. The iPod Software 2.0.1 update requires Mac OS X 10.1.2 or higher and is available through Software Update or as a separate 30 MB download. Windows users should also download MusicMatch Jukebox 7.5 to gain USB 2.0 functionality. [JLC]

<http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html? artnum=120229>
<http://www.apple.com/ipod/download/ ipodsoftwareupdate13.html>
<http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/ WebObjects/AppleStore? productLearnMore=M9126G%2FA>
<http://www.audible.com/>
<http://www.musicmatch.com/download/free/?OS=pc& amp;OEM=APPLE>