Apple activates Genius sidebar for movies, TV shows

Apple has activated the Genius sidebar functionality for movies and TV shows in iTunes, a feature that was originally mentioned on Apple’s preview page for iTunes 8.1, then removed shortly after the release of the software. In initial testing, it appears that the feature only works with iTunes-purchased or iTunes Digital Copy files, failing to recognize movies and shows that were obtained or imported through other stores or software. In addition, iFun.de points out (Translated Link) that while the feature is activated in Germany, it is dependent on the iTunes Store country currently selected — for example, since movies aren’t available from the iTunes Store in Germany, the sidebar feature only shows TV shows. iTunes 8.1 is available through Apple’s Software Update utility or as a direct download from apple.com/itunes.