Is Apple getting ready for a new Music Service? Well, maybe not just yet, at least that's what reports from Reuters are saying. Word from label sources is that there are ongoing "talks" between Apple and music executives from the four major labels about a potential cloud-based streaming service. Although this isn't much of news considering we've known about these talks for some time now, we do know now that the reason for these lengthy talks is due to the rather "large hurdles" that have held up the process. Licensing negotiations for the service haven't started yet and probably won't start until after the two sides have ironed out all of the details and agreed on a concept. "The company has indicated that the data center is on track to be completed by the end of CY10 and it will begin using it then," Gene Muster, analyst, said in a research note earlier this week. "We believe an announcement at the September event is likely, but the service may not begin until late CY10." However, analyst Brian Marshall said that he believes the event will only make announcements on Apple TV and the new iPods but nothing regarding the streaming service. "It'll be about the iPod. Apple TV, that's still chugging along. They will likely introduce in a sleek case with more storage, but that's not going to be a big deal."
Here's another "rumor" that was floating around cyberspace before the event yesterday. According to CNET news Mr. Steve Jobs was expected to announce one of iTunes newest features. That's right another new feature. If you are an iTunes user, word is that you will soon be able to sample a song for up to 90 seconds instead of the much to short 30 second segment currently available on iTunes. CNET does note that this rumor is supported by several sources with knowledge of the move, however, an Apple spokesman said the company doesn't comment on speculation and rumor. According to the sources, Jobs and Apple will focus on how the company is improving iTunes' music discovery experience at the event.
So what was announced at the event yesterday? Mr. Steve Jobs announced Apple's newest venture into the social network universe. Like many other social networks, users will be able to keep in touch and share their music taste with friends. "This isn't about reconnecting with your girlfriend from eighth grade," said analyst Michael Gartenberg. "This is about talking to people about music." You will be able to follow friends and see what music they have bought or like, what concerts they plan on attending and what music they have reviewed. They will also be able to follow bands and get updates on their new releases, concert tours and other events. Mr. Jobs said Ping would have simple privacy controls. Anyone will be able to follow bands and receive their updates, and users will be able to say whether they want to be followed by anyone or only by people they approve. As anticipated, there was no word reported on the cloud-based music service but Jobs did announce new products for the year, "This year we've gone wild." In the list is the upgraded version of Apple TV, new versions of the iPod Shuffle, Nano, and Touch models. To get the full list and information make sure you check out the New York Times article.
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