When Apple announced iOS 5 and iCloud earlier in the year, they also introduced a new music streaming service called iTunes Match. This innovative service allows users to stream music that they already own from the cloud directly to their iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. This means that users can access their entire music library without needing to store all the files locally on their devices, which is a significant advantage for those with limited storage space.
When Apple released iOS 5 earlier in the month, we were informed that iTunes Match would launch in November. Now, it appears that iTunes Match may be getting ready to launch sooner than expected.
Apple has now activated the option to turn on iTunes Match in iOS 5, which could mean that the service will launch soon. Initially, iTunes Match will only be available in the US, and the service will cost $24.99 per year. This annual fee is quite reasonable considering the convenience and functionality that iTunes Match offers.
How iTunes Match Works
iTunes Match works by scanning your existing music library and matching your songs with tracks available in the iTunes Store. If a match is found, the service will make that song available for streaming from the cloud in high-quality 256 kbps AAC format, even if your original copy was of lower quality. For songs that are not available in the iTunes Store, iTunes Match will upload them to the cloud, allowing you to stream them just like the matched songs.
This service is particularly beneficial for users who have a large music collection with songs acquired from various sources. Instead of manually uploading each song, iTunes Match automates the process, saving time and effort. Additionally, having your music in the cloud means you can access it from any of your Apple devices, ensuring a seamless listening experience.
Global Availability and Future Prospects
Currently, there is no information on whether iTunes Match will also be available in the UK and Europe at the same time as the US launch. The availability in other regions will likely depend on Apple’s ability to secure similar licensing agreements with European record companies as it did in the US. Given Apple’s global reach and influence, it is reasonable to expect that they are working diligently to expand the service to other markets.
The introduction of iTunes Match is part of Apple’s broader strategy to integrate cloud services into their ecosystem. By offering a comprehensive solution for music storage and streaming, Apple is positioning itself as a leader in digital music services. This move also complements other iCloud features, such as photo storage, document syncing, and app data backup, creating a more cohesive and user-friendly experience for Apple customers.
In conclusion, iTunes Match represents a significant step forward in how we manage and access our music libraries. With its ability to stream high-quality music from the cloud and its integration with the broader iCloud ecosystem, iTunes Match offers a compelling service for music lovers. As we await its official launch, it will be interesting to see how it is received by users and how quickly Apple can expand its availability to other regions.
Source: Razorianfly
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