Sunday, June 18th 2006
Microsoft Developing iPod Killer
Source close to Microsoft are confirming that the Redmond, Washington based company is developing its own rival to the hugely popular iPod music/video player. Apple has ruled the portable audio scene for years and has successfully fended off attacks from a number of strong competitors, but can they withstand a full assault from the 800 pound gorilla?
The sources point to Xbox guru Robbie Bach as the project leader for the music player. There is also word that Microsoft has held some closed door talks with representatives for the music industry to work out licensing deals. The new music player would be joined by a Microsoft-backed music service separate from the recently announced URGE music service co-developed with MTV. Reuters reports:
Most iTunes rivals charge monthly fees to access a catalog of entertainment, but some allow consumers to buy individual songs for about $1 each. Microsoft's service will emphasize the pay-per-download, or a la carte, model, the sources said. A subscription component will also be offered, according to early accounts of the planned service. One source, who has seen a demonstration of the service, said it was an improvement over iTunes. "They have been developing technologies that have really good music discovery and community," another source said. "iTunes is the 7-11 (of music stores). You don't hang out there."
Source:
Daily Tech
The sources point to Xbox guru Robbie Bach as the project leader for the music player. There is also word that Microsoft has held some closed door talks with representatives for the music industry to work out licensing deals. The new music player would be joined by a Microsoft-backed music service separate from the recently announced URGE music service co-developed with MTV. Reuters reports:
Most iTunes rivals charge monthly fees to access a catalog of entertainment, but some allow consumers to buy individual songs for about $1 each. Microsoft's service will emphasize the pay-per-download, or a la carte, model, the sources said. A subscription component will also be offered, according to early accounts of the planned service. One source, who has seen a demonstration of the service, said it was an improvement over iTunes. "They have been developing technologies that have really good music discovery and community," another source said. "iTunes is the 7-11 (of music stores). You don't hang out there."
10 Comments on Microsoft Developing iPod Killer
I recently downloaded soem stuff from Sony and have been completely appaled at the closed up approach to burn the music to a CD unless if you use thier software. So much in fact that I transfered the music by recording the playing audio PCM stram as it no longer contains the copyright and retains the full digital clarity.
Like they can stop me.
Apple, however has a soilid foundation and a good track record of supplying quality products.
Microsoft tends to supply a satisfactory product, then attempt to throw money at making it look better while making it worse.
Dead end, IMO.
If you're irritated about usint itunes, use an alternative program. Unlike most vendors, apple doesnt send cease and decist letters to people making em. Such as ephpod. Hell, apple ene endorsed it for windows use before itunes for windows was released.
I personally find Itunes an excellent program.... :)
Or just use a cdrw ;)
www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2004/07/30/BUGH07V5VN31.DTL&type=business