Unlimited itunes? It could happen
Word on the street as of this past Wednesday is that the folks at Apple and the big record labels are discussing a one time only fee that would give ipod users unlimited access to itunes at no additional cost for 5 years (the average ipod lifespan). The sticking point at the moment is just how much to charge users. According to Rolling Stone.com and the Financial Times, Apple wants to charge us the amazingly low price of $20 for unlimited itunes access while the labels are aiming for something in the neighbourhood of $80, which is what Nokia phone users are paying for unlimted access to downloads from the artists on the Universal label. Basically, all new ipods would include the extra price increase that goes towards itunes access.
$20 or $80 - while one is obviously cheaper, I think both are extremely reasonable for the opportunity for unlimited music downloads. The question is, what will happen to all of us that already own ipods? Will we get any sort of brand new deal comparable to what new ipod buyers will receive?
Do you own an ipod? If not, will this potential new deal entice you to get one? Let us know.
In the meantime, here’s a bonus code that’s going to have to last you until Tuesday: IPOD.
Have a great long weekend!
March 20th, 2008 at 11:18 am
While I am a current iPod user, this deal would certainly entice me to get a new one. The only problem I would have is that pretty much all of the music I am interested in, I already have on my iPod. Still, I would probably go for the deal if it becomes available. I can already see myself spending a whole lot of time surfing through the iTunes Store. Bring it on Baby!!
March 20th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Well, this is not a tough call for me..
I have most of the songs in my collection already, so for me to go and pay a stipend to download maybe one or two albums worth of songs I may not have, doesn’t make much sense..plus the fact it would take me away from listening to JACK FM!
On another tangent: Two things Andrew..
1) Can you ask someone to post who won the signed Iron Maiden Guitar? The draw was supposed to be March 18th, and I have yet to hear or see who won on the site.
2) Ya might want to change title in this column from “Unlimted itunes?” to “Unlimited itunes?” Unless forgetting the “I” was a joke, then nevermind me being pedantic! LOL
Cheers
Brendan
March 20th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Thanks Brendan. I’ll mention the Iron Maiden contest to the bigwigs!
March 20th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
Nope, have no Ipod, and this is no enticement to get one.
I like my music unmolested by itunes, and the ability to put it on any mp3 player I chose, and play it any way I want, and share it as I see fit, or not.
itunes does not allow that, and the many programs out there that claim to fix that are questionable, at best.
And 5 years out of a machine, for what they cost?
March 22nd, 2008 at 7:48 pm
Both my kids have ipod just recently (30g) and i cant see them being able to afford new ones so hopefully they would do something for people who already own ipods
Sandra