iTunes Variable Pricing Live, Winamp Adds Online Store

Author	Gordon Kelly
Published	8th Apr 2009

iTunes Variable Pricing Live, Winamp Adds Online Store

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Couple of developments here which are likely to send the respective services in different directions...

iTunes has finally launched its much discussed 'variable pricing' scheme which sees it charging different amounts for tracks depending on their age and popularity. Consequently individual tracks will now be charged at either 59p, 79p or 99p - in the US this is 69c, 99c and $1.29.

In all fairness Apple has long claimed the move simply reflects what it is charged by music labels. That said, it is unlikely to win it too many fans compared to cheaper rivals, most recently Amazon MP3 which is selling many tracks at just 29p and brand new albums for under £3.

In related news Winamp has shown that it isn't ready to be seen as legacy software just yet. The venerable music player has shown its determination to modernise this week with the introduction of an integrated online music download store.

Much like the agreements with Spotify and Songbird, the AOL owned app has inked a deal with 7Digital to use its API to give customers access to 6m DRM-free tracks in 10 European countries.

All in all, probably not the best time for Apple to be frustrating its customers...

Link:
iTunes UK
Winamp