Quick iTunes Note
Alright, so I refreshed my browser a couple of times during the MacWorld keynote speech to see what Apple was coming out with. I’m not concerned so much with the new laptop or iPhone stuff - it was the improvements to the AppleTV unit and iTunes that interested me. Apple getting into video-on-demand is interesting, as are the capabilities of the new AppleTV unit (for those of you with digital cable boxes, it’s pretty much like the on-demand services you have right now - one step forward towards a la carte cable viewing as opposed to subscription?). It’s also cool that some hi-def DVDs are going to include iTunes-ready digital files on the disc. This fulfills a pet peeve of mine - being able to get a digital backup of your media. With this, you can have a copy on your computer and your disc at the same time without technically violating the DMCA (even though I’d regard copying that media as well within your rights). The only drawback is the DRM on the iTunes files. Even if it’s less restrictive than other DRM, it’s still there. Baby steps?
It’s also telling to me that iTunes skipped right over music this time around. Except for mentioning that it’s offered wirelessly through AppleTV and such, there were no new announcements. Given that record companies are making the move towards Amazon (at least the majors), I’m curious to see if more music offerings at better bitrates and without DRM are in the cards. And don’t forget, there’s always Tunecore and CD Baby to get your music on these services.