Check this out. Minimize iTunes using the green button to get the mini-player. Then plug in your iPhone. iTunes 8.1.1 no longer expands and pops to the front of your screen! That's really cool!
I noticed this in 8.1.1, but it could have been introduced in 8.1, I don't know.
I noticed this in 8.1.1, but it could have been introduced in 8.1, I don't know.