Microsoft Prepares Alternative To Apple iTunes

bmarklein writes "According to CNET, Microsoft is working on a version of its DRM software that supports expiration of files on portable devices. Combined with a subscription service like Pressplay (soon to become Napster) that allows unlimited "tethered" downloads, you'll be able to fill up your high-capacity player with new music for a flat monthly fee. Of course it will expire once you stop paying the sub fee, but which do you think is the better deal: $7500 to fill a 30GB player (7500 songs at $1 each) with iTunes Music Store, or $120 a year with the ability to swap in new music whenever you want? How much is it worth to you to "own" the bits?"

Comments

Soulseek

[mackstann]

Yeah, Soulseek! Even for free, it rocks, lots of obscure stuff, even some ebooks, movies, etc. The reliability of downloads is awesome compared to alot of other p2p apps, and for every $5 you donate, you get a month of priority downloads - that is, you get bumped straight to the front of queues. It's also cool because it's a little more people-centric and friendly, not like alot of p2p apps where you're just downloading from user3423523661@kazaa.com or whatever. It runs on unix, mac, and windows too (the python client should run damn near anywhere).

Anyways, not trying to be OT, but for those people who aren't sympathetic to the twisted billionaire fuckfaces at RIAA et al, it's a great thing.