Apple purchased online music service Lala a while ago, and recently announced that Lala would be shutting down on the 31st of May 2010. There were many rumors that Apple was set to launch their own online music service based on Lala.
Now it seems that Apple has filed a patent for a new type of online music service, and it looks like it is going to be called ‘iTunes Live’ according to a recent patent filed by Apple.
The patent filing for ‘iTunes Live’ has the following information in it which might give us an idea of how the service may work.
– Online retail store services (prerecorded musical, audio and audiovisual content)
– Entertainment services (arranging and/or conducting concerts and live musical performances)
Potential Features of iTunes Live
The details in the patent filing suggest that iTunes Live could offer a variety of features that would set it apart from existing music services. The mention of “online retail store services” indicates that users might be able to purchase and download music, similar to the current iTunes Store. However, the inclusion of “prerecorded musical, audio and audiovisual content” hints at a broader range of media, possibly including music videos, podcasts, and even exclusive artist interviews.
Moreover, the “entertainment services” aspect, which involves “arranging and/or conducting concerts and live musical performances,” suggests that iTunes Live could host live streaming events. This could be a game-changer, allowing fans to watch live concerts from the comfort of their homes. Imagine being able to attend a live performance by your favorite artist without having to travel or deal with the hassle of concert tickets.
Implications for the Music Industry
The introduction of iTunes Live could have significant implications for the music industry. For artists, this platform could offer a new revenue stream. Live performances and exclusive content could be monetized, providing artists with additional income beyond traditional album sales and streaming royalties. This could be particularly beneficial for independent artists who may not have the resources to organize large-scale tours.
For consumers, iTunes Live could offer a more immersive and interactive experience. The ability to watch live performances and access exclusive content could make the platform more appealing than traditional music streaming services. Additionally, the integration of various types of media could provide a more comprehensive entertainment experience.
Apple has a history of revolutionizing the music industry. The launch of the iTunes Store in 2003 changed the way people purchased and listened to music, making digital downloads mainstream. With iTunes Live, Apple has the potential to once again reshape the landscape of online music services.
It will be interesting to see what Apple comes up with and whether their online music service ends up being called ‘iTunes Live’ or whether this is just another one of their many patent filings. Given Apple’s track record, it’s likely that whatever they release will be innovative and impactful.
via Gadgetsteria
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