iTunes 8.1.1 hits the streets with 70mb update.

Like the old Ragu ad, we have to ask, "What’s in there?!!?"  Usually iTunes point point updates are 10-15 mb each, this one is many times that.  Apple lists some of the updates (snappieness™!) but we’re sure we’ll find out some others.  Thankfully, this update doesn’t require a restart.  Can we get confirmation of speed improvements out there?

iTunes 8.1 is now faster and more responsive. You will enjoy noticeable improvements when working with large libraries, browsing the iTunes Store, preparing to sync with iPod or iPhone, and optimizing photos for syncing.

In addition, iTunes 8.1 provides many other improvements and bug fixes, including:

• Supports syncing with iPod shuffle (3rd generation).
• Allows friends to request songs for iTunes DJ.
• Adds Genius sidebar for your Movies and TV Shows.
• Improves performance when downloading iTunes Plus songs.
• Provides AutoFill for manually managed iPods.
• Allows CDs to be imported at the same sound quality as iTunes Plus.
• Includes many accessibility improvements.
• Allows iTunes U and the iTunes Store to be disabled separately using Parental Controls.

iTunes 8.1.1 adds support for renting HD movies and provides a number of bug fixes, including addressing issues with VoiceOver and syncing with iPhone or iPod touch.