Winamp launched its 10th anniversary media player on Oct. 10 (get it? the 10th anniversary on 10/10). Version 5.5 is a serious improvement over previous iterations of the software, but as Switched.com asks, what's its relevance in a space dominated by Windows Media Player and iTunes?

One big difference between 5.5 and older Winamps is that this one syncs with your iPod -- providing a viable alternative to iTunes if that's your preference. Winamp 5.5's new interface includes album art, customizable skins, and an easy way to drag-and-drop songs or videos into your library.

One of the best things about the new software is its slick integration with AOL Radio, with dozens of channels as well as 20 more from XM Satellite Radio. You don't have to be an AOL member or XM subscriber to listen, though because I happen to have XM in my car, I can vouch for the quality of the 20 stations you get.

Some of the best make the list -- XM '80s, XM 20 on 20 (top hits), XM Deep Tracks (classic rock), XM Flight 26 (current alternative rock) -- and I find that they actually load and play more quickly in Winamp than they do in the radio player built into the AOL 9.0 software. And the stations, like Winamp itself, are all free.

Check it out at http://www.winamp.com/