The file "iTunes Library.itl" cannot be read because it was created with a newer version of iTunes

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The file "iTunes Library.itl" cannot be read because it was created with a newer version of iTunes

Howdy, I just had to reset my PC Laptop with Windows 11. I reinstalled W11 but kept my old files.

Upon downloading and installing iTunes, I now get the error - The file "iTunes Library.itl" cannot be read because it was created with a newer version of iTunes

I've tried going into the folder "Previous iTunes Libraries" but it won't load, I still get the same error message.

Thanks

Kris

Windows, Windows 6

Posted on Mar 4, 2024 10:42 PM

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Answer 1

javaliga

Level 10

119,895 points

Mar 6, 2024 4:35 PM in response to Kris Cawthorn

It is possible that a corrupt preference file may cause iTunes to fail at launch with one of these errors:

The file iTunes Library.itl cannot be read because it was created by a newer version of iTunes.
The folder “iTunes” is on a locked disk or you do not have write permissions for this folder.
The iTunes Library.itl cannot be found or created. The default location for this file is in the 'iTunes' folder in the 'Music' folder.

It may be worth trying the shift-start-iTunes method (option on a Mac) to actively select the .itl file that should contain your library. If you still get the error message try Repair security permissions for iTunes for Windows and/or check for interference from anti-virus software.

For more info, see:

Empty/corrupt iTunes library after upgrad… - Apple Community

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The file "iTunes Library.itl" cannot be read because it was created with a newer version of iTunes

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