We heard early today that Apple have signed a deal with EMI for their new iTunes cloud music streaming service, and now the guys over at Patently Apple have discovered a new patent which is related to the yet to be announced iTunes streaming service.
The patent was filed in 2009, which obviously shows that Apple has been working on its iTunes cloud service for quite a while, and it reveals a unique approach to how the iTunes streaming might actually work.
Apple’s patent and invention is directed to locally storing portions of a media item that is streamed to an electronic device. In particular, Apple’s invention is directed to locally storing an initial portion of a media item from a user’s library, and requesting a stream of the remaining portion of the media item upon starting local playback of the initial portion.
Innovative Streaming Technology
This innovative approach allows users to start listening to their music almost instantly, without having to wait for the entire song to buffer. By storing an initial portion of the media locally, Apple ensures a seamless playback experience. This method could significantly reduce buffering times and improve the overall user experience, especially in areas with slower internet connections.
Moreover, this technology could be particularly beneficial for users who have large music libraries. Instead of having to download entire songs or albums, users can stream their music on-demand, saving both time and storage space on their devices. This approach also aligns with the growing trend of cloud-based services, where data is stored on remote servers and accessed via the internet.
Potential Impact on the Music Industry
The introduction of iTunes cloud music streaming service could have a significant impact on the music industry. By offering a seamless and efficient way to stream music, Apple could attract more users to its platform, potentially increasing its market share. This move could also encourage other companies to innovate and improve their own streaming services, leading to a more competitive market.
Furthermore, the deal with EMI suggests that Apple is serious about securing high-quality content for its users. EMI, being one of the major record labels, has a vast catalog of music that could be made available on the iTunes cloud service. This could provide users with access to a wide range of music, from classic hits to the latest releases.
Additionally, the iTunes cloud service could open up new revenue streams for artists and record labels. By making their music available for streaming, they could reach a larger audience and potentially increase their earnings through streaming royalties. This could be particularly beneficial for independent artists who may not have the resources to distribute their music through traditional channels.
Head on over to Patently Apple for lots more details on this newly discovered patent on Apple’s new iTunes cloud music streaming service.
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