I understand why people don’t particularly like DRM on their tracks, but let’s not forget that it allowed the iTS possible. I’m hesistant to hail this is a killer move; but a great option, yes.
I wonder how long it will take for all the non-DRM tracks to be available over sharing networks like BitTorrent. Call me naïve but I do think that too many people will take advantage of this to get more free music. I know lots will be careful enough to not put them in a shared folder for the world t see, but there’s many stupid people out there.
I’ll get slated for this, but I like DRM, it has allowed me to get the music I want, simply and cheaply. The iTS enabled me to buy music, rather than paying for overpriced CDs. Having the option to choose your player is great, but I love iPods, and I think its very important that people don’t steal.
Anyway, if I wanted to put all my stuff on another player I’d burn it and rip it(which would take forever), I’d never share it, I have a conscience. Please don’t think I’m implying everyone who has non-DRM music is a criminal, but there are enough people out there who copy music to damage iTunes sales in the long-run.
The best part of this is the higher bit-rate of these unprotected tracks. I’ll buy some for that reason alone, but don’t expect to get them off me!
UPDATE: Just listening to the news on BBC Radio 1, only the biggest radio station in the UK, broadcast worldwide; and what was their headline?
“Why it will now be a little easier for you to share music with your mates.”
That’s irresponsible.
