Apple
is taking the next step with its popular iPod by adding video to the
mix. The Wall Street Journal reports Apple is already in talks with
major record companies to license their video catalogs for an iTunes
video store. The videos are likely to sell for $1.99. Currently, videos
downloads are already being offered on the iTunes Music Store, but
these downloads are usually offered as a packaged deal with albums, as
with the new Babyface record selling for $11.99. Users can also watch
over 500 video streams for free, but in these cases they do not get to
keep the videos themselves.
The article suggests a video iPod could be released as early as September. Video is a major draw to consumers in general, as evidenced by sales of HDTVs, so Apple’s move into video is a logical progression. If videos on iTunes and iPods catch on, Apple could once again change the way people buy music, or even the concept of what makes an album. It should also change record labels’ approach to producing videos. They do not have to be just promotional tools vying for attention on MTV and VH1 (and occasionally DVD), but stand-alone products people are willing to pay for. Content does not have to be limited to music videos, live concerts have already proved their popularity on DVD and could easily be made into downloads. Apple is also reportedly approaching companies about licensing TV shows.
Sources: www.CNN.com and www.WallStreetJournal.com
The article suggests a video iPod could be released as early as September. Video is a major draw to consumers in general, as evidenced by sales of HDTVs, so Apple’s move into video is a logical progression. If videos on iTunes and iPods catch on, Apple could once again change the way people buy music, or even the concept of what makes an album. It should also change record labels’ approach to producing videos. They do not have to be just promotional tools vying for attention on MTV and VH1 (and occasionally DVD), but stand-alone products people are willing to pay for. Content does not have to be limited to music videos, live concerts have already proved their popularity on DVD and could easily be made into downloads. Apple is also reportedly approaching companies about licensing TV shows.
Sources: www.CNN.com and www.WallStreetJournal.com
Like this article? Bookmark and share with any of the sites below.
