Set it Free and They Will See, Possibly More Money
So there has been some feedback, or rather some controversy regards to Steve Jobs’ essay “Thoughts on Music”: which translate to his speculations that Apple should open its anti-piracy technology “to its rivals” instead of implementing strict regulations for copying music sold online via DRM.
Mitch Bainwol, chairman and chief executive of the Recording Industry Association of America, said the move would “eliminate technology hurdles” that basically make songs bought on iTunes impossible to play on other devices and MP3 players. Bainwol stated that RIAA “have no doubt that a technology company as sophisticated and smart as Apple could work with the music community to make that happen." The question is what does he mean by this statement? Is RIAA against the possible consequences, or are they prepared to accept the trend toward eliminating DRM.
As discussed in previous blogs, the major record labels - Universal Music Group, EMI Music, Sony BMG Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group control about 70% and continue to use DRM as a means to protect copyrighted materials and piracy.
Jobs strongly believes that by eliminating DRM and such limitations the music industry would prosper – as well as iTunes due to the fact that a larger music marketplace will arise. This could be true. Perhaps if the consumer gets what they want for a cheaper, more available price; or partake in sharing music files, the industry can grab more fans. Once you taste something you like, you are most likely apt to return for more. Observe the free sample gig- Costco, Trader Joes, “taste the new cinnamon dolce latte- I bet you like it and buy one each time you come to Starbucks”. You betcha we’ve all bought samples.
The whole idea of “fairplay” isn’t really fair, they are saying –“here is a song – buy it- oh, but you can only play it on our companies ipod.” Let it be said, if one buys something, they have the right to do what they want with it. Not in the music world however- they want to control income and sales. It seems a little ridiculous that people will copy hundreds of CD to share with thousands of people- who has the time to be nice? It seems Jobs understands the “unfair play” in this situation.
Other people see the issue too. A senior analyst at Inside Digital Media Phil Leigh, recommended that removing copy restraints would also give the labels' music a greater exposure. "Digital music has entered the mainstream," Leigh said. "The restrictions (the labels) require Apple and others to carry are preventing the market from developing to its full potential - it's retarding the growth." Why can’t the industry see this? They need to become “friends” with their customers – so customers can remain “fans”.
Mitch Bainwol, chairman and chief executive of the Recording Industry Association of America, said the move would “eliminate technology hurdles” that basically make songs bought on iTunes impossible to play on other devices and MP3 players. Bainwol stated that RIAA “have no doubt that a technology company as sophisticated and smart as Apple could work with the music community to make that happen." The question is what does he mean by this statement? Is RIAA against the possible consequences, or are they prepared to accept the trend toward eliminating DRM.
As discussed in previous blogs, the major record labels - Universal Music Group, EMI Music, Sony BMG Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group control about 70% and continue to use DRM as a means to protect copyrighted materials and piracy.
Jobs strongly believes that by eliminating DRM and such limitations the music industry would prosper – as well as iTunes due to the fact that a larger music marketplace will arise. This could be true. Perhaps if the consumer gets what they want for a cheaper, more available price; or partake in sharing music files, the industry can grab more fans. Once you taste something you like, you are most likely apt to return for more. Observe the free sample gig- Costco, Trader Joes, “taste the new cinnamon dolce latte- I bet you like it and buy one each time you come to Starbucks”. You betcha we’ve all bought samples.
The whole idea of “fairplay” isn’t really fair, they are saying –“here is a song – buy it- oh, but you can only play it on our companies ipod.” Let it be said, if one buys something, they have the right to do what they want with it. Not in the music world however- they want to control income and sales. It seems a little ridiculous that people will copy hundreds of CD to share with thousands of people- who has the time to be nice? It seems Jobs understands the “unfair play” in this situation.
Other people see the issue too. A senior analyst at Inside Digital Media Phil Leigh, recommended that removing copy restraints would also give the labels' music a greater exposure. "Digital music has entered the mainstream," Leigh said. "The restrictions (the labels) require Apple and others to carry are preventing the market from developing to its full potential - it's retarding the growth." Why can’t the industry see this? They need to become “friends” with their customers – so customers can remain “fans”.
posted by Danielle Pizzorni @ 8:55 AM
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