From: http://iphonefreakz.com/2008/10/01/apple-closing-itunes/ the implication is that there is a risk.
There maybe a number of factors that should be considered:
1. The current state of the download market in terms of total cost of service it relies on.
2. Should there be a separate model for on-line sales?
Clearly, technology moves over time and so does dependable business behaviour. However, business models take time to adjust because organisational models are mapped to them. In the case of the entertainment business it is an irony that music can be innovative, yet many outlet channels relied on are staid.
Last night I was talking to an agent of an up and coming fusion/folk band and it was fascinating to hear his perspective on how inconsistently podcasts are rated. He wondered how some content was being promoted by PR. For example, Sometimes it is difficult to see how selective bands, movies and general entertainment is truly promoted. This is because the market consists of many people/organisations that dependant on each other, e.g: Public Relations, Concert Ticket sales, Commercial outlets and of course the performers and composers/writers – everybody wants a bit of the action.
Downloading via itunes is quick as a click and if offered you can even download the CD cover (Although I still prefer the ascetics of the Album cover).
What all sides need to do before things get out of hand, is to understand practical costs rather than replicating from a traditional models. Its time for a re-think and compromise from all that have a vital part to play!
Popularity: 7% [?]