How to continue to use iTunes 12.6.5.3 for Windows with iOS 13.5
I wanted to share this work-around to those that still want to use iTunes version 12.6.5.3 for Windows with iPhones upgraded to iOS 13.5.
This is the last version that supports downloading and installing apps.
First, I found that I could not update my iPhones from iOS 12 to 13 using this version of iTunes. I had to install the latest iTunes version on another computer to do that. I could have done the upgrade over the air, but I prefer using iTunes since I can do an iTunes backup just prior to the upgrade.
After the upgrade, the Backup Now button is greyed out in iTunes when I plug in the iPhone. This work-around fixes that.
1. If you haven't already, install iTunes version 12.6.5.3. You can download from here: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208079
2. Download the latest version of iTunes from https://support.apple.com/downloads/itunes
Unfortunately, Apple's iTunes download page directs you to the Microsoft Store instead of the direct download if you are using a Windows computer. I tried some browser fiddling work-arounds that did not work for me. I ended up using a Linux (Ubuntu Live) install in a VMWare virtual machine to download it. You can probably also do it with a Mac or Chrome book.
Here is the current direct download link:
3. Use a Zip utility to extract the iTunes64Setup.exe contents to a folder. I used 7Zip. You should see a list of files like this (for the 64bit installer):
AppleApplicationSupport.msi
AppleApplicationSupport64.msi
AppleMobileDeviceSupport64.msi
AppleSoftwareUpdate.msi
Bonjour64.msi
iTunes64.msi
SetupAdmin.exe
4. Install the AppleMobileDeviceSupport64.msi
Similarily, if you use iCloud for Windows, you need to download the iCloud for Windows installer, extract with the Zip utility, then install only the iCloud64.msi file. We are essentially avoiding installing the newer AppleApplicationSupport bits in the newer installers that don't work with the older iTunes.
Hope this helps someone,
Clark.
