One reason some people do not like using Linux operating system is because they will not be able to run their favorite software in it. Such programs may be available for Windows or Mac, but a Linux edition can be very difficult to obtain. Some common examples include Apple iTunes, Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Office. These three programs can actually be used in Linux and this write-up will highlight the options available to you. Two options are available to you. You can use WINE to get iTunes for Linux or it can be run in a virtual device using VirtualBox.
It is not difficult to use any of the two and they are both free. However, their mode of operation is completely different and using VirtualBox will require that you install a full licensed Windows copy.
WINE makes it possible to run Windows applications in Linux without copying Windows. It accomplishes this by capture all the dll plus function calls from Windows and administering them by itself. It may also get them converted into a form that can be understood by the Linux OS. What this means is that Windows is not required to run Windows applications.
WINE can be gotten in the usual manner via the package manager. If for example you are running Ubuntu, follow this path: System, Administration, after that click on Synaptic Package Manager. Once you are there you can search for WINE, and install the app when you find it, and then visit the Apple website and download iTunes. After the download is complete, click the file with the right mouse button and select Open with Wine Window application loader. This can now be installed just like every other Windows application even though you are actually running it in Linux.
A new icon will be added to your desktop and you will find an iTunes menu which is a WINE submenu within the menu bar. The program can be run as if it were a Linux application. It will function just the way it would in Windows.
You will encounter one or two problems while running iTunes for Linux using WINE. For example the system does not recognize iPods, and that can be really annoying. There are some other concerns and you may have to wait up to thirty seconds to see the preferences dialog box when you want to display it.
Another way to get iTunes for Linux is by making use of VirtualBox. Several operating systems can be installed on it and these can be run on the desktop in a window. You can install your own copy of Windows in a virtual device and it can be run in Linux either full screen or within a window. Any device you plug in the USB ports will be recognized by VirtualBox and it will make it available to the operating system within the virtual machine. When an iPod is plugged in, iTunes will sync with it automatically.
In terms of convenience and price, using WINE to get iTunes for Linuxis better than using VirtulaBox because you will not have to bother about virtual machines or installing Windows.