On the eve of the ITunes Music Store introduction for Windows-based PCs,
Microsoft’s general manager for the Windows Digital Media division, Dave Fester,
posted his thoughts on ITunes for Windows. In his comments, Fester concludes
that ITunes is too limited for Windows users.
“Unless Apple decides to make radical changes to their service model, a
Windows-based version of ITunes will still remain a closed system, where IPod
owners cannot access content from other services,” said Fester.
“Additionally, users of ITunes are limited to music from Apple’s Music Store
… this is a drawback for Windows users, who expect choice in music services,
choice in devices, and choice in music from a wide variety of music services to
burn to a CD or put on a portable device. Lastly, if you use Apple’s music store
along with ITunes, you don’t have the ability of using the over 40 different
Windows Media-compatible portable music devices. When I’m paying for music, I
want to know that I have choices today and in the future.”
Winning over users
When asked how the ITunes Music Store differs from Windows-based services,
Fester talks about Napster and the different types of options it will offer
users. Fester concludes that it will be the best experience that ultimately wins
over consumers.
“All told, music fans should look for services that offer the best experience
and take advantage of the best digital media platform available on Windows. With
Windows Media 9 Series, you get faster starts, better quality music, and support
for the most devices,” Fester said.
For its part, Apple Computer still feels it has the best offerings in the
market today and didn’t seem too worried about Fester’s comments.
“If someone buys music from another source and it can’t play on the
number-one digital music player, that would probably be very disappointing for
them,” Rob Schoeben, Apple vice president of Application Product Marketing, told
MacCentral. “With our solution, we provide seamless integration of all the
component parts that you want and it creates a compelling enough experience that
you can do what you want to do–and that is enjoy music.”
“We think the leading portable music player, the leading music store, and the
best jukebox is a fantastic offering for consumers,” said Schoeben.
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