Apple bought the online music service Lala a while back, and most folks knew that the days of Lala would be short. Apple was expected to integrate some of the Lala tech into its own offerings. Lala and Apple have now announced that the Lala service will be shutting down.
The last day of operation for the service will be May 31. Existing users of Lala will be able to continue logging in and accessing their accounts until that day. Obviously, no new signups will be accepted.
The Transition from Lala to iTunes
TechCrunch reports that people with credit left in Lala will have those credits transferred over to iTunes. This move ensures that existing Lala users are not left in the lurch and can continue to enjoy their music purchases through Apple’s more established platform. The integration of Lala’s technology into iTunes is expected to enhance the user experience by incorporating some of Lala’s unique features, such as its music streaming capabilities and innovative playlist management.
There are some rumors going around that Apple will be launching an iTunes.com offering in June. If that is true, it will undoubtedly mean Lala is being resurrected in an Apple subscription offering. This potential new service could be Apple’s answer to the growing popularity of music streaming services like Spotify and Pandora, which have been gaining traction among users who prefer streaming over purchasing individual tracks or albums.
The Impact on the Music Industry
The acquisition of Lala and its subsequent shutdown marks a significant moment in the evolution of digital music services. Lala was known for its innovative approach to music streaming, allowing users to listen to entire songs for free once and then purchase them for a nominal fee. This model was quite different from the traditional iTunes model, which focused on selling individual tracks and albums. By integrating Lala’s technology, Apple has the opportunity to diversify its offerings and appeal to a broader audience.
Moreover, the potential launch of iTunes.com could signify a shift in Apple’s strategy towards a more cloud-based approach. This would align with the broader industry trend of moving away from physical media and downloads towards streaming and cloud storage. Such a shift could have far-reaching implications for the music industry, influencing how artists release their music and how consumers access it.
For example, a cloud-based iTunes service could offer users the ability to access their music library from any device with an internet connection, making it more convenient and flexible. This could also pave the way for new features, such as personalized music recommendations based on listening habits and social sharing options that allow users to discover new music through their friends.
In conclusion, while the shutdown of Lala may be disappointing for its loyal users, it represents a strategic move by Apple to enhance its music offerings and stay competitive in the rapidly evolving digital music landscape. The integration of Lala’s technology into iTunes and the potential launch of iTunes.com could provide users with a more versatile and user-friendly music experience, ultimately benefiting both consumers and the music industry as a whole.
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