Report: Unlimited iTunes subscription a myth

Talk of unlimited subscriptions at the iTunes Store is largely unfounded, a new report claims. Yesterday, the Financial Times suggested that Apple has been shopping around the concept of a premium on iPods and iPhones, which would grant users unlimited access to iTunes music; in turn, revenue would be distributed appropriately amongst record labels. Apple is further said to be angling for a $20 premium, while a record label executive has said the amount could go as high as $100, based on research of public opinion.

According to sources cited by Business Week, however, no negotiations are underway. An Apple spokesman has declined to comment, and "insiders at major music labels" have effectively dismissed any rumors. One source does acknowledge that the concept of a subscription plan has been "kicked around" for approximately a year, but that "no meaningful discussions" have taken place so far.

Filed under: iPod, iPhone, Apple
Other story tags: iTunes, music

, 5

Bookmark www.electronista.com now or subscribe to RSS feed.

5 comments

Reader Reactions

subscribe to comments
for this article

220136 03/20, 9:55am, EDT from the article

"some 4 billion songs sold" "some 50 million customers" "average ipod owner buys 20 songs"

4 billion songs ÷ 50 million customers = 80 songs

146 million ipods / iphones sold? yes, that would be closer to 20 songs, but that's not counting repeat customers as the same purchasers. the problem with executives and business negotiations is that they don't rely on standard anything. not standard policy, standard math, standard common sense or common decency.

posted by rsande

220141 03/20, 11:01am, EDT Here's an idea.

How about we leave off on unlikely rumors untili there's actually some basis for consideration. That would not include analyst speclation.

Just a thought.

posted by danviento

220148 03/20, 11:40am, EDT not gonna work...

That idea about leaving off rumours won't work. There are entire industries whose livelihood depends on rumours. The entire stock market performs essentially on rumours most of the time. If there weren't any, it would be equivalent to Atlantic City (or Vegas, for those on the West Coast).

posted by vasic

220163 03/20, 1:09pm, EDT Re: here's an idea

How about we leave off on unlikely rumors untili there's actually some basis for consideration. That would not include analyst speclation.

So, who decides a rumor is unlikely? Do we take a poll? And aren't a lot of rumors unlikely until they happen?

Finally, what fun is facts? Everyone knows facts. Rumors allow for everyone to run with it and go "Well, if they then did this....."

posted by testudo

220185 03/20, 5:33pm, EDT For a myth...

the topic surely made a lot of rounds. It's truly amazing how some story like this gets started and just builds upon itself. I'm sure there is always the possibility that Apple may have to do something this year to sell iPod hardware if the economy should stay flat or worsen. Well, the rumor was indeed interesting to chew on, but I guess it's time to spit it out and say goodbye.

posted by Constable Odo

Your Comments

Not a member of the MacNN forums? Register now for free.