So, today we had our iPad delivered.
As I feared, the thing is useless without iTunes.
Roughly, this means that anyone using only Linux can go DIAF.
Stubborn as I am, I decided to try a Windows VM.
As expected, iTunes installation went fine. However, VirtualBox OSE (found in the Ubuntu repositories) doesn’t have USB support built in.
Luckily, How-To Geek came to the rescue: Mount USB Devices in Virtualbox with Ubuntu
On a side note: Remember to download and install the VirtualBox Extension Pack found on the VirtualBox download page to fully get USB to work.
After logging out and back in to my Ubuntu desktop, I was able to turn on USB support in my virtual machine, and hook up the iPad to my virtual iTunes install.
Another EULA and a few screens further, and the iPad was registered and ready for use.
After some app installing and Youtubing, I must say I’m pleased with the thing.
It’s great for watching video, and the children’s games are made of win.
And aside from entertainment, I’ve got a proper touch device to test my sites on. :-)
