If you prefer the classic layout of older versions of iTunes over the new layout, you can switch iTunes back to the classic view. Here are some quick answers about reverting iTunes to its classic interface:
Why would I want to switch back to the classic iTunes view?
There are a few reasons why you may want to revert to the older classic view of iTunes:
- You find the new iTunes layout confusing and preferred the simpler classic layout
- You don’t like the giant album art that takes up most of the iTunes window
- You find it easier to navigate your media library and playlists using the classic left sidebar
- You dislike the white space and extra padding in the new iTunes layout
If the newer iTunes layout doesn’t work for your personal preferences, switching back to the classic view can make iTunes feel more familiar and user-friendly again.
Is it still possible to change back to the classic iTunes view?
Yes, you can still revert iTunes to the classic view, even in the latest version of iTunes for Windows and Mac. Apple provides the option to switch back to classic mode in the iTunes settings.
How do I switch iTunes back to the classic layout?
Follow these simple steps to change iTunes back to the classic view on a Windows PC or Mac:
- Open your iTunes app and click iTunes in the top left menu
- Select Preferences from the drop down menu (Edit > Preferences on Mac)
- Click the General tab in the iTunes preferences window
- Look for the “Show iTunes full window” option and uncheck the box
- Close and relaunch iTunes – it should now be in the classic layout
That’s all there is to it! iTunes will now display the classic left sidebar with playlist navigation and a compact window.
What are the main differences between new and classic iTunes?
Here’s a quick comparison of some key differences between the new and classic iTunes interfaces:
| New iTunes Layout | Classic iTunes Layout |
|---|---|
| Large album artwork | Smaller album artwork size |
| Media library fills screen | Sidebar for navigation |
| Tabs for switching views | Separate permanent buttons |
| More white space | Compact design |
As you can see, the newer iTunes layout focuses on larger album art and a clean, sparse look. The classic view has smaller UI elements, navigation sidebar, and denser information layout.
Does reverting to classic view disable any iTunes features?
Switching iTunes back to classic mode does not disable any major features. You can still access your full media library, buy content from the iTunes store, sync with devices, and use all the usual iTunes features.
Some minor layout changes include:
- The mini player is in the top right instead of bottom right
- StatusBar details like time remaining move to the bottom
- View switching buttons replace view selector tabs
But overall, classic iTunes provides the same core functionality as the new iTunes layout.
Can I get the classic iTunes look on the latest version of macOS/Windows?
Yes, you can change iTunes to the classic layout even on the latest OS versions. iTunes continues to provide the legacy interface option on:
- macOS Ventura
- macOS Monterey
- macOS Big Sur
- Windows 11
- Windows 10
The classic/full window toggle is available on iTunes for Windows and Mac going back many years. So you can get the old school iTunes appearance regardless of your operating system.
Will Apple ever remove the classic iTunes view option?
At this time, Apple has not announced any plans to remove the ability to revert to classic iTunes. The classic view toggle has been retained in all versions of iTunes for over a decade.
Since many long-time iTunes users prefer the older interface, it seems likely Apple will continue offering the classic view for the foreseeable future. However, there is always a possibility Apple could discontinue the classic mode in some future iTunes update.
For now, you can safely switch back to classic iTunes on both Windows and Mac. But just to be safe, it may be wise to provide Apple feedback requesting they continue including the legacy interface.
What happens if I restore my iPhone/iPad in new iTunes?
If you sync or restore an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch using the newer iTunes interface, this does not affect the ability to revert to classic view. Your device sync and backup functionality will work the same in both iTunes layouts.
The iTunes version that handles device communication is separate from the interface skin. So restoring a device in new iTunes does not lock you out of classic mode or affect synced data in any way.
Is it better to use the new or classic iTunes layout?
Whether to use the new or classic iTunes layout is largely a matter of personal preference. Here are some factors to consider for each view:
Potential benefits of the new iTunes layout:
- Displays large album/single art
- Cleaner, more modern appearance
- Tabs for quickly switching views
- Could be better for touchscreen devices
Potential benefits of the classic iTunes layout:
- Smaller, more compact interface
- Dedicated buttons for switching views
- Sidebar for easy navigation
- May be better for smaller screens
- Familiar layout for long-time users
In the end, it comes down to your own needs and preferences. Try both modes for a while and see which iTunes layout works best for you.
Can I get the classic view back if I already updated?
If you already updated to the latest iTunes version and want to go back to classic view, don’t worry — you can still revert at any time. Even if you are already running the new iTunes layout, the option to return to classic mode remains available in your settings.
Just follow the same steps above to toggle “Show iTunes full window” off, relaunch iTunes, and the older classic layout will return.
What happens if I delete my iTunes library?
If you delete your iTunes library, this will reset iTunes back to a blank state. You would lose all your existing media files, playlists, and iTunes settings. This includes your choice of classic or new iTunes view.
If you re-add media or restore an iTunes backup after deleting your library, iTunes will default back to the latest view, not the classic layout. You would then need to re-enable the classic mode via the View > Show iTunes Full Window menu item.
So be very cautious before deleting your iTunes library, as this cannot be easily undone.
Can I get help switching back to classic view?
If you need any help reverting your iTunes to the classic layout, here are some support options:
- Ask a friend or family member who knows iTunes for help
- Take your computer to an Apple Store Genius and ask them to switch iTunes to classic view
- Contact Apple Support online or by phone and explain you want to change iTunes back to the older classic interface
- Search for iTunes classic view tutorials online for step-by-step instructions
- Post in an iTunes user forum or subreddit asking for tips on switching to classic mode
Don’t hesitate to reach out to knowledgeable iTunes users or official support channels if you have any trouble switching the view back to classic.
Why doesn’t iTunes look the same on my friend’s computer?
If iTunes looks different on your friend’s computer compared to yours, the most likely explanation is that you have different interface modes enabled.
You may have the newer default iTunes view, while your friend has the classic iTunes interface. Or vice versa – you may have classic mode turned on, while your friend sees the more modern layout.
The main iTunes views you or your friend could have set are:
- New layout – Large album art, whitespace, tabs for switching views
- Classic layout – Smaller UI, sidebar navigation, dedicated buttons
- Mini player – Compact mini playback screen
As long as you both are on the latest version of iTunes, the different appearances are simply caused by having the View > Show iTunes Full Window setting enabled or disabled.
You can guide your friend through the steps above to change their iTunes view to match yours, if you prefer having the same interface.
Can I revert the menu bar back to classic as well?
Unfortunately, there is no built-in setting to revert just the iTunes menu bar back to the classic style. The View > Show iTunes Full Window option changes the entire interface between new and classic.
However, you can find third party macOS apps that customize the menu bar like Bartender or Divvy. These could potentially help modify the iTunes menu to look more like the classic style.
On Windows, it may be possible to use skins or visual modification tools to restyle parts of the iTunes title bar and menu. But there is no straightforward way to revert just the menu bar within iTunes itself.
What’s the best way to adjust to the new iTunes layout?
For many longtime iTunes users, the new iTunes interface feels jarringly different at first. Here are some tips for easing the transition:
- Use it exclusively for a few weeks – Using the new view regularly helps you adapt faster
- Play with options – Try adjusting size, tweaking settings to optimize the view
- Learn keyboard shortcuts – Memorize shortcuts to speed up common tasks
- Focus on key features – Stick to features you use most until the layout clicks
- Ask others for help – Have a friend explain parts of the interface that confuse you
While frustrating at first, try to be patient and keep an open mind to the new iTunes. With regular use, it should start to feel more intuitive over time.
Conclusion
iTunes allows you to revert to the classic interface so you can keep using the layout you are most comfortable with. Just toggle off Show iTunes Full Window in Preferences on Mac or Edit > Preferences on Windows.
The classic iTunes view still provides full media management functionality, despite being more compact. So don’t hesitate to switch back if you don’t like the newer iTunes appearance.
While the latest iTunes design takes some adjustment, you can grow accustomed to it over time. Or simply opt for the classic view that iTunes veterans are most familiar with.
