Prior to version 12.1, iTunes on Windows was a 32-bit application running under WoW64 (Windows on Windows 64). Version 12.5.5.12555 is a true native 64-bit executable. This yields three tangible benefits:
Run the Installer:
Select Components:
Complete Installation:
First Launch Configuration:
It is worth noting that while 12.5.5 was a major milestone, Apple has since released newer versions (12.12.x and beyond). If you are doing a fresh install today, iTunes will usually prompt you to download the absolute latest version available. However, if you are specifically looking for the 12.5.5 build for legacy compatibility reasons, you will need to dig into the Apple "Older Versions" archive.
| Feature | iTunes 12.5.5 (12555) | Modern iTunes/Apple Devices App | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | App Management | ✅ Full support (add/remove iOS apps via PC) | ❌ Removed after iOS 9 | | Ringtone Syncing | ✅ Drag-and-drop .m4r files | ❌ Requires iCloud or third-party tools | | Local Library Speed | ✅ Very fast (classic database) | ❌ Laggy on HDDs | | Windows 7 Compatibility | ✅ Fully supported | ❌ No longer supported | | iPod Classic/Nano Support | ✅ Full sync | ❌ Read-only or broken | | 64-bit Native Performance | ✅ Yes (Build 12555 is native x64) | ⚠️ Mixed (often runs as 32-bit via MS Store) | itunes 12555 for windows 64bit new
A: Some aggressive antiviruses (like McAfee or Avast) flag legitimate Apple components (e.g., AppleMobileDeviceHelper.exe) as “potentially unwanted” because they inject DLLs into other processes for syncing. Whitelist the iTunes folder in your AV.
Running an older version of iTunes on Windows is not just a matter of missing out on features; it’s a security risk. Here is why the iTunes 12555 for Windows 64bit new is a mandatory upgrade.
A: No. This build officially drops support for Windows 7 and 8.1. Trying to install it will result in a “Procedure entry point not found” error. You must use Windows 10 64-bit or newer. Prior to version 12
iTunes 12.5.5 was released by Apple Inc. in early 2017 as a maintenance and feature update for Windows users. It specifically targets 64-bit editions of Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10. This version bridges the gap between legacy iTunes features and early preparations for the then-upcoming Apple Music enhancements.
Correction note: Version number “12555” is interpreted as 12.5.5 (build 12.5.5.5). No official 12555 exists.