iTunes | Using Two Versions

This post is for those using the dot-method to revert to iTunes 10.7.  One reason people revert to iTunes 10.7 is because it is a superior way to manage a very large music library.  However, these same people probably use modern apple devices (iPod, iPhone, iPad, etc…).

If you only have one computer, it is possible to create two iTunes libraries. Then switch between iTunes 12 and iTunes 10.7.

I find switching between versions of iTunes is only useful for updating your modern iPhone, iPod and iPad, etc.… If you try to use the same iTunes library for both versions, iTunes 12 will convert your iTunes 10.7 library files.  Thus, making those files unusable with iTunes 10.7.  That is why you need two libraries.  One for each version. My iTunes 12 library doesn’t really have any music in it.  I keep all that stuff in my iTunes 10.7 library.

And, you need to be careful switching between the two.  Always have a backup of your important iTunes folder (library, etc…) in case you mess up.

For this tutorial, I assume you have followed one of the dot-method to revert:

Revert from iTunes 11 to iTunes 10.7 (Mavericks)

Revert from iTunes 12 to iTunes 10.7

Prepare Before You Start

Back up your iTunes folder, iTunes library, etc…  If something goes wrong you’ll be safe ;-)

Important: Set Terminal up to use show/hide aliases.

Important: Prepare two folders:

1. Folder 1: Label as “CoreFP Temp Holding”.
2. Folder 2: add a copy of the iTunes 12 CoreFP.framework inside the folder.
   1. (If needed, use Pacifist to extract the CoreFP.framework from each .dmg file.  Instructions are here).

Restore the Original CoreFP.framework

Restore the Original CoreFP.framework. The one that belongs with the hidden .iTunes.app:

• Unplug all devices (iPhones, iPods, iPads, etc.).
• Go to: HD > System > Library > PrivateFrameworks.

• Copy CoreFP.framework and CoreFP.framework2 to the “CoreFP Temp Holding” folder.

• Delete CoreFP.framework and CoreFP.framework2 from the PrivateFrameworks folder.
  • Select both items, right-click, move to trash.

• If prompted, Click Authenticate to allow action.
• if prompted, Enter admin password.

• Drag/Drop iTunes 12 CoreFP.framework from your “folder 2” to PrivateFrameworks.
  • If prompted, Click Authenticate to allow action.
• Drag/Drop CoreFP.framework from PrivateFrameworks back to folder 2.
  • (It will copy it, leaving the original in the PrivateFrameworks folder. Now you’ll have a copy for the next time).
• Restart your computer.

Make the Switch

• Open Terminal, type in showFiles, hit return on keyboard.
• Find the hidden .iTunes.app in the Applications folder.
• Hold the Option/Alt key on the keyboard and double click the .iTunes.app.
• The “Choose iTunes Library” window opens.
• Click Choose Library (or create a new one specifically for this version of iTunes if it is your first time).
• Find the library you created (I named mine iTunes 12), select and click open.

• Please go to preferences and disable auto updates.
• Close iTunes when you are finished.
• Unplug all devices (iPhone, iPod, iPad, etc.).

Restore the iTunes 10.7 Hack

Prepare by Opening:

• Terminal, type in hideFiles and hit return on the keyboard.
• The “CoreFP Temp Holding” folder.
• The PrivateFrameworks folder: (Go to: Your Hard Drive > System > Library > PrivateFrameworks).

Steps:

• Select CoreFP.framework and CoreFP.framework2 from the “CoreFP Temp Holding” folder.
• Drag/Drop into the PrivateFrameworks folder.

• If prompted, Authenticate.
• If prompted, Admin pass.

• Click Replace in the pop up window.

• Unplug all devices (iPhone, iPod, iPad, etc.).
• Restart your computer.
• Hold the Option/Alt key on your keyboard and launch iTunes10.app.
• The “Choose iTunes Library” window opens.
• Choose the library you use for iTunes10.

Thank you

I hope this tutorial helps you to keep using iTunes 10.7 while being able to update your modern devices using iTunes 12+.

Be sure to leave a tip if you can spare some.