Apple could use iPhone 3G to intro new mobile music services
Apple may use the highly anticipated launch of a iPhone 3G to expand its mobile music offerings, in a bid to hold on to its lucrative lead in online digital music.
At present, iPhone users can either use a Wi-Fi hotspot to purchase and download music from iTunes, or simply “side-load” it from iTunes running on their PC whenever they synchronise their iPhone.
A iPhone 3G’s faster cellular connection could allow users to purchase music over the air…
According to several anonymous executives in the music industry, Apple is also keen to expand its ringone and ringback services. At present, not all tracks on iTunes can be converted to ringtones (officially, at least), and those that can command an additional charge.
Another possibility is for Apple to create a subscription-based music service, where users can download and listen to as much music as they like, without owning it, for as long as they’re a paid up subscriber, though that rumour has been around for over a year.
Those claiming to be in negotiations with Apple reckon the company wants to launch new services in June, alongside the expected iPhone 3G announcement and iPhone 2.0 software. Ultimately, it’s going to come down to record label co-operation. and that usually involves money.
With the likes of Napster closing in on Apple’s territory, they’ll need to pull something impressive out of the hat next month if they want to maintain their dominance.
(Via iPhonic)
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