What Does Eligible Mean in iTunes?

Apple's music software, iTunes, has many different options and features. Not only does this program store and sort your music, but it also catalogs books, audio books, TV shows and movies. If you come across the term "Eligible" in iTunes, it can mean a few different things depending on where in the software you read it.

iTunes Plus

Apple's new format, called iTunes Plus, provides music and video using the 256 kilobits per second (kbps) AAC audio encoding format. You may be eligible to upgrade your prior iTunes purchases to this new format. To see a list of your eligible upgrades, click on the" iTunes Plus" link, found in the Quick Links section of the Apple Store inside your iTunes application.

iTunes Error Message

When updating your iPod touch, iPad or iPhone, you may see the error message "This device is not eligible for the requested build." If you receive this error, first make sure you are using the latest version of iTunes. If you are using the latest version and the error message persists, Apple suggests that you make sure all of your system software is updated, make sure your router or modem firmware is updated and confirm that your security software is updated. If you are still unable to update your iPhone, disable your security software while doing the update.

Ringtone Eligibility

In some earlier version of iTunes, you can pay to create ring tones from some of your selected songs. Eligible songs will have a bell icon next to the name. Click on the song and select "Create Ringtone" from the Store menu.

Complete My Album

Apple allows you to purchase individual songs or complete albums. For users who first buy one song and later want to buy the whole album, Apple offers a discount in the form of the complete My Album program. If you purchase the album within 180 days of buying the single, you'll save money. This offer is only available to certain itemsand certain albums, marked as eligible, and you may find that the album you wish to complete is not eligible for this program.

References

• Apple: iTunes Store: iTunes Plus Frequently Asked Questions
• iTunes: Specific Update and Restore Error Messages and Advanced Troubleshooting
• iTunes: Troubleshooting Security Software Issues
• iTunes Mac 8.2 Help: Creating Ringtones for Your iPhone
• iTunes Store: Complete My Album Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)