I have followed multiple sets of directions to remove iTunes so I can re-install it. I have downloaded removal tools. I am at a loss. What is the bottom line to get iTunes deleted? I am using windows 7 Home Premium on a Gateway Laptop.
Gateway Laptop-OTHER, Windows 7
Liz 59,
Are you trying to remove the iTunes program, and leave your library with its content in place? Doesn't the standard Windows "uninstall" meet your needs?
These are the only directions you need to remove iTunes. Remove and reinstall iTunes and related software components for Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8 - Apple Support
What makes you think that it is not removed?
No. It leave behind Apple Mobile Device Support. When I use control panel to un-install, it proceeds, then rolls back in its progress, and does not un-install it. If I try to re-install iTunes with that old file in place, the install gets to a certain point, and then will not finish.
Apple Mobile Device Support is left behind, and un-install will not remove it.
For general advice see Troubleshooting issues with iTunes for Windows updates.
The steps in the second box are a guide to removing everything related to iTunes and then rebuilding it which is often a good starting point unless the symptoms indicate a more specific approach. Review the other boxes and the list of support documents further down the page in case one of them applies.
The further information area has direct links to the current and recent builds in case you have problems downloading, need to revert to an older version or want to try the iTunes for Windows (64-bit - for older video cards) release as a workaround for installation or performance issues, or compatibility with QuickTime or third party software.
Your library should be unaffected by these steps but there are also links to backup and recovery advice should it be needed.
tt2
If you read the instructions in the support document, anything that is not removed has to be removed individually. They provide you with instructions.
This extract is from the support document I provided. If you are unaware of how to do that, you will need to get assistance from someone that is aware of how to deal with file maintenance on a computer.
In most cases, removing iTunes and its related components from the Control Panel will remove all supporting files belonging to those programs. In some rare cases, files might be left behind. After following the steps above, confirm that the following files and folders have been removed. If any are left, remove them.
If you have a 64-bit version of Windows, confirm that the following folders have been removed:
I am running as administrator. To re-reinstall, I need to go through all those steps and manually delete all those additional files that uninstall did not remove. Crazy making. . . . . . . . . .
I continue to get to this point with the apple Mobile Device error message.. If I choose abort, it tries to re-install anyway. If I choose ignore, it continues through the install, tells me congratulations,. . . . . but I get the Error 7 message.
Try a full tear down and clean install. If AMDS doesn't install correctly try repairing it, check the support document How to restart the Apple Mobile Device Service (AMDS) on Windows - Apple Support. or see the section Install missing components of the user tip I mentioned above. If that still doesn't work see if the iTunes for Windows (64-bit - for older video cards) release works for you.
tt2
How to restart the Apple Mobile Device Service (AMDS) on Windows - Apple Support. After trying this as the first step, I get an error message. On to the next step you suggested.
Thanks you!!! We have success!!! Thank you so much. Using this suggestion: see if the iTunes for Windows (64-bit - for older video cards) release works for you. . . . successfully removed any and all files, and re-installed iTunes!!
Do I now ignore any future updates to iTunes? It is my best guess that trying to update is how this whole mess started. I may be wrong in that assumption. . . . . . . .
I would avoid letting iTunes update automatically and choose when to upgrade so you have time to roll back or switch versions if you need to. The page I've linked to should get updated around the same time as the next release. It may be that you won't have any issues with next full 6464 installer, but at least you now know where to go for the alternative if there are problems.
tt2
Remove, Remove, Remove iTunes. Grrr.
