Universal To Go Semi-DRM-Free, But Not On iTunes

Early last month, we posted that Universal Music decided against renewing their iTunes agreement, which sent shock waves through the interwebs. Well here’s a new spin on things, and again, iTunes will not be one to benefit. Universal intends to begin selling much of their catalog through online music shops, excluding iTunes, completely DRM-free. For most consumers, this should be a win/win since you can purchase the songs and then use them wherever you please… exactly how it should be in the first place.

… the music will not be offered D.R.M.-free through Apple’s iTunes, the leading music service. The use of copy protection software has become a major bone of contention in the digital music business, where iTunes accounts for the vast majority of download sales. The record labels generally have required that retailers place electronic locks to limit copying of music files.

Source: New York Times