Takes on Apple’s iTunes with the 6 million tracks of its own and in a format that provides far more convenience, portability, and functionality.
It’s still fascinating to consider that the RIAA could have literally nipped the file-sharing problem in the bud almost a decade ago by embracing Naspter and digital music distribution back in 1999. Instead of seeing the future or to even be willing to consider the possibility of other music formats beyond the traditional CD, it opted to sue anyone who even attempted to test out the idea and then proceeded to sew the Earth with salt to prevent any further disruption to its monopoly as music’s gatekeeper.
Napster’s centralized nature allowed it and the service to be shutdown, but, as we all know, a steady succession of file-sharing programs filled the gap left by its demise. To boot, they were decentralized and left the RIAA desperately suing single-mothers, the disabled, college students, children, and even the deceased.
So it’s particularly satisfying to Napster come full circle and offer people exactly what everyone has said the RIAA should have done from day one – offer DRM-free digital music at an affordable price.
For yesterday Napster announced the launch of the "world’s largest and most comprehensive MP3 store" that it boasts is "more than 50% larger than any other MP3 store" and has "not only the largest major label MP3 catalog in the industry, but also the largest library of independent music available anywhere." Though it’s claim of 6 million tracks mirrors that of Apple’s iTunes, who also claims a similar number.
"Music fans have spoken and it’s clear they need the convenience, ease of use and broad interoperability of the DRM-free MP3 format, and they want to be able to find both major label artists and independent music all in one place. Napster is delighted to deliver all of this and more with the world’s largest MP3 catalog," said Napster’s Chairman and CEO Chris Gorog. "Our new MP3 store, together with our award-winning ‘all you can eat’ music subscription service, provides the most comprehensive and exciting music experience available. Virtually any portable device in the world can now be used to enjoy tracks purchased at Napster, which is an important breakthrough for our company."
Before now Napster has focused on selling unlimited monthly streaming music subscription packages, but has struggled to win over the majority of fans who want to be able to transfer songs they like on to a portable music device such as an iPod. With this announcement however, all that may change.
Pricing for download will remain at 99 cents for single MP3 tracks and $9.95 for most MP3 albums. The vast majority of the MP3 catalog, including all major label content, is available at a high-quality 256kbps bitrate, and downloaded tracks include high-resolution album art.
"Our goal is to enrich your life with music, in ways that are personalized to you," said Chief Operating Officer Christopher Allen. "Napster now offers a truly complete and synergistic digital music destination, where music lovers can not only discover and listen to music, but also buy and own everything they want in MP3 format, which works on any music player. The combination offers consumers the best of both worlds."
It’s welcome news and is sure to make many say "I told you so" to the RIAA.
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- iTunes Music Store tops a million songs in US
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wheres the V0? whats up with this 256 kbps trend….
And where is the service originally promised to allow independent artists to freely share music? Killed by the RIAA because it would break their monopoly.
When will it be launched in Norway?