The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)

The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)http://www.tuaw.comThe Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.tuaw.com/media/feedlogo.gifThe Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW)http://www.tuaw.comen-usCopyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/iTunes pricing and DRM schemes updated for 2009http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/06/itunes-pricing-and-drm-schemes-updated-for-2009/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/06/itunes-pricing-and-drm-schemes-updated-for-2009/http://www.tuaw.com/2009/01/06/itunes-pricing-and-drm-schemes-updated-for-2009/#commentsFiled under: Macworld, iTS

Phil Schiller today outlined Apple's new pricing scheme for iTunes music, and announced additional music that will be available DRM-free.

In April, depending on the label, songs will be available at three price points: 69 cents, 99 cents, and $1.29. Apple says many more songs will be priced at 69 cents than $1.29, but new releases will likely cost more. Albums will mostly remain at the $9.99 price point.

~~69 cent songs will have greater restrictions on how they can be used: For each song, users will only be able to download it to one Mac, burn it to one CD, and copy it to one iPod.~~ Turns out this was idle speculation from one of our colleagues, and not part of the changes today. Sorry about that. -- RP

More songs will be also be made available as part of the iTunes Plus program, which features higher-quality, DRM-free music files. Eight million (of 10 million total) songs will be available through iTunes Plus today, and every track will be available DRM-free by the end of March. (Thanks, Chris!)

iPhone users that connect to the Internet via 3G also got good news: They will be able to connect to the iTunes store via both WiFi and 3G starting today. Update: Others with first-generation iPhones here in the Media Center report that the iTunes store appears to work over EDGE, too, but weren't able to test it.

As many expected, Schiller announced new sales figures for the iTunes store, saying Apple has 75 million accounts, and is now the number-one music retailer in the United States.

iTunes pricing and DRM schemes updated for 2009 originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

iTunes pricing and DRM schemes updated for 2009 originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>drmdrm-freeiphoneitunesitunes plusItunesPlusmacworld09macworld2009tieredRobert PalmerTue, 06 Jan 2009 14:33:00 ESTD'Oh! The Simpsons TV makes it to iTuneshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/27/doh-the-simpsons-tv-makes-it-to-itunes/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/27/doh-the-simpsons-tv-makes-it-to-itunes/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/27/doh-the-simpsons-tv-makes-it-to-itunes/#commentsFiled under: iTS

Back in 2005, TUAW conducted a poll of its readers to see what TV series they wanted to purchase through iTunes. Among the top five was The Simpsons.

The Simpsons Movie was previously available through iTunes, but it is one of the movies that has disappeared in the past few weeks. In the past couple of days, however, the main Simpsons TV series has finally made it into the iTunes lineup.

Only the eight episodes aired thus far in season 20 are uploaded in standard definition. Hopefully earlier seasons will arrive, along with high-definition once it starts. The Simpsons (link opens iTunes) can be purchased from the U.S. iTunes Store for $1.99 an episode with a season pass for $37.99.

Or, for those wanting a free alternative in the U.S., the episodes are also on Hulu and can be streamed onto Apple TV using boxee.

Thanks for the tip, Tyler!

D'Oh! The Simpsons TV makes it to iTunes originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

D'Oh! The Simpsons TV makes it to iTunes originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>boxeehuluitunes storeItunesStorethe simpsonsTheSimpsonsMegan LaveySat, 27 Dec 2008 08:30:00 ESTSo you just got an Apple TV -- now what?http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-an-apple-tv-now-what/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-an-apple-tv-now-what/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-an-apple-tv-now-what/#commentsFiled under: iTS, Apple TV, Holidays

All day on December 25, TUAW presents "Now What?" We've got first steps and recommendations for all the Apple gifts you (hopefully!) found under the tree today. Happy holidays!

The Apple TV launched almost two years ago and has yet to really "take off." That's OK, with more and more downloadable HD content, improved support for stuff like podcasts and Airtunes and some awesome third-party solutions, the Apple TV can easily become a great media center.

Did Santa bring you an Apple TV this year? These are my tips for making it even more awesome!

Boxee It

I've made no secret about my unabashed love for boxee, the awesome media center with a social kick that can run on your Apple TV. It should be no surprise that my first piece of advice is that you set-up boxee on your Apple TV as soon as you get it connected to your TV and home theater.

Need an invite? If you don't have a friend to ask, check out the boxee forums, hit up the boxee Twitter feed or pester me (@film_girl) and you should be able to get one pretty quickly. On January 8th, 2009, boxee will be opening up the alpha for everyone.

After you've updated your Apple TV to the latest firmware, follow my instructions or take a look the information at the ATV USB Creator project page for the the details on making a patchstick. The process is extremely easy and you just need a USB stick (1 GB or more recommended) and a few minutes to get everything up and running.

Once boxee is installed, you can enjoy Hulu (if you live in the US), streaming video from other services, last.fm and playback of other file types that won't natively play on the Apple TV; you can store those files either on the Apple TV, or that you access from another hard drive.

Learn about the other cool software add-ons

I really love the Awkward TV Wiki, which is a great way to stay abreast of the latest programs and hacks users have created for the Apple TV. Most of these plugins can be installed via a patchstick -- like boxee -- and they run on-top of the existing Apple TV interface. Some of the coolest utilities, like Couchsurfer, have recently been updated for firmware 2.3.

Although modifying your Apple TV does come with some risks (you might have to do a factory restore if something goes wrong), the methodology of applying said modifications has become much, much easier and you really aren't putting your Apple TV at risk. Still, keep in mind that Apple won't provide any technical support for a modified Apple TV (which means, restore it to factory settings before sending it back :-)).

Try out a new remote, ore the iPhone/iPod touch remote app

One of the most usefulf feature additions in firmware 2.3 is the ability to program a universal remote to work with the Apple TV. If you have a really nice programmable remote, like the Logitech Harmony, you've already been able to use it with the Apple TV -- but now you can do the same thing with your TV or receiver remote.

Even better, if you have an iPhone or iPod touch, the Remote app [iTunes link] is pretty awesome. The Remote app let's you control music from your Apple TV -- which is fantastic if you want to use the ATV as a music center.

Rent some holiday movies or buy a holiday TV show

'Tis the season! Rent or buy a Christmas movie directly from the Apple TV! You can also peruse some holiday TV classics, like The Best Christmukkah Ever from the first season of The O.C.

So you just got an Apple TV -- now what? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

So you just got an Apple TV -- now what? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>apple tvapple-tvAppleTvboxeeFeaturesremote.appChristina WarrenThu, 25 Dec 2008 18:30:00 ESTSo you just got an iTunes gift card -- now what?http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-an-itunes-gift-card-now-what/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-an-itunes-gift-card-now-what/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/25/so-you-just-got-an-itunes-gift-card-now-what/#commentsFiled under: iTS, iTunes, Holidays

All day on December 25, TUAW presents "Now What?" We've got first steps and recommendations for all the Apple gifts you found under the tree today. Happy holidays!

Hopefully a lot of you reached into your Christmas stockings and pulled out a ~~lump of coal~~ fully-loaded iTunes gift card. In case you haven't been presented with one of these gems before, they come in denominations of $10, $25, $50, and $100 in the USA -- check your country's Apple website for the availability of cards in your local currency.

Turning this card into tunes or iPhone apps is simple:

1) Check the back of the card first. If you see a list of numbers and letters instead of the words "Scratch off gently with coin", then your card has been used before. Take the giver off of your Christmas list for next year.

2) If the scratch-off material is intact, grab a coin and gently scratch off the material to reveal the code.

3) Launch iTunes. Make sure you're logged into your iTunes account and not somebody else's.

4) In the upper right part of the iTunes screen you'll see an area marked "Quick Links" (see screenshot at left). Click on the "Redeem" link.

5) You're almost there. A screen appears that will ask you to enter the code exactly as it appears. Note that if you mistype even one number or letter, the card will be rejected, so make sure you're reading the letters and number properly.

6) Click the "Redeem" button. You may want to read the Terms & Conditions, but I seriously doubt it. There's more legalese in that document than you'd find in a bank bailout plan.

7) If everything has gone as planned at this point, you'll have a credit in your account. Exactly how much money you have to play with will be listed just to the left of your iTunes account name in the upper right side of the iTunes window.

8) Buy tunes and apps until you're filled with the joy of the holidays!

So you just got an iTunes gift card -- now what? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

So you just got an iTunes gift card -- now what? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>app storeAppStorefeaturesgiftsitunesSteven SandeThu, 25 Dec 2008 12:00:00 ESTFirst Look: Christmas with Weezer http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/13/first-look-christmas-with-weezer/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/13/first-look-christmas-with-weezer/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/13/first-look-christmas-with-weezer/#commentsFiled under: iTS, iPhone, Holidays, App Store, iPod touch, First Look

When Tapulous released Christmas with Weezer [iTunes link] for the iPhone and iPod touch last week, I was pretty excited, as it combined three of my favorite things: Weezer, Christmas music and Tap Tap Revenge.

The tough economic climate, stresses over moving two days before I leave for Macworld 2009 and a hectic schedule have given me less holiday cheer than usual, but I'm happy to say, Christmas with Weezer is helping to turn that around.

Christmas with Weezer takes Tap Tap Revenge's addictive format and adds to it some Christmas cheer. Not only do Rivers and company perform a bevy of Christmas classics, the interface is all wrapped up for Christmas.

The Kids Mode is great for anyone starting out with TTR or for kids who want to get in on the fun. Christmas with Weezer also features the multi-tap and tap and hold game elements introduced in the recently released, Tap Tap Dance (iTunes link).

Check out the gallery below. Christmas with Weezer is $4.99 and available in the App Store.

Gallery: Christmas with Weezer

First Look: Christmas with Weezer originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

First Look: Christmas with Weezer originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>christmaschristmas with weezerChristmasWithWeezeriphonetap tap revengeTapTapRevengetapulousweezerChristina WarrenSat, 13 Dec 2008 13:00:00 ESTWhat's On asks 'WTF?'http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/07/whats-on-asks-wtf/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/07/whats-on-asks-wtf/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/07/whats-on-asks-wtf/#commentsFiled under: Analysis / Opinion, iTS, App Store

Last week, Apple launched a special page [iTunes link] within iTunes celebrating the best of 2008 in all the various content categories. The Apps page [iTunes link] shows off the best selling (and presumably editor's picks) for paid and free apps in various categories. This is a great way for users to get a snapshot of the best and most popular and is surely a publicity boon for developers of those chosen apps.

But what happens when an app goes from being featured to disappearing off the list in a matter of hours? This is the exact situation Napkin Studio's "What's On?" [iTunes link] found itself in. "What's On?" is an app that displays TV listings, lets you track your favorite shows and share show info via e-mail. It's similar to the i.TV app [iTunes link], but the focus is solely television and I think the interface is a bit more readable.

When the iTunes 2008 list debuted, "What's On?" was listed as one of the Top Entertainment apps. If you look at the page now, "What's On?" is no longer listed.

Andrew from Napkin Studio explained the situation to us via e-mail:

...we were eager to see if our application had made the cut. To our surprise, we
had made it in the Top Paid Entertainment Apps list! We quickly
notified all of our users via email newsletter, twitter and other
channels to spread the news. Later in the evening, one of our
employees looked and we were no longer on the list. We looked several
places to be certain and sure enough, the Top Paid Entertainment list
was down to 7 with an obvious hole where What's On once was featured.

Andrew provided us with screenshots of the iTunes 2008 Apps page before and after. I went ahead and took a screenshot of the page as of this morning, and found even more discrepancies. Take a look:

L. Top Entertainment with "What's On?" | R. Top Entertainment a few hours later

Top Entertainment Apps on 12-6-2008

Both "What's On?" and "OneTap Movies" have been removed from the listing, replaced by "iLightr" and "Crazy Lighter."

So what happened? "What's On?," like a number of applications, was available for free last weekend as part of a Black Friday/Cyber Monday promotion. Perhaps this change in pricing disqualified the application from Apple's paid listings -- though logic would suggest the choices were made before the Thanksgiving holiday. Napkin Studio emailed Apple and has gotten no response. My e-mails to iTunes PR have also gone unanswered.

Of course, Apple is free to feature any applications it wants, but the discrepancies and changes in this case leave me scratching my head. For a small company like Napkin, which already started to publicize What's On as a featured app, the whole experience has been embarrassing as well.

What's On asks 'WTF?' originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 07 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

What's On asks 'WTF?' originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Sun, 07 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>app storeapp-storeAppStoreiphoneitunes 2008Itunes2008itvwhats onWhatsOnChristina WarrenSun, 07 Dec 2008 13:00:00 ESTiTunes shows off the best of 2008http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/03/itunes-shows-off-the-best-of-2008/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/03/itunes-shows-off-the-best-of-2008/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/12/03/itunes-shows-off-the-best-of-2008/#commentsFiled under: iTS, iTunes

Apple has created a "Best of 2008" [iTunes link] section in the iTunes Store. On this page, Apple lets everyone know what the top-downloaded TV Shows, Music, Movies, Apps, Podcasts, and Audiobooks are.

Among the top paid iPhone applications are Koi Pond, Texas Hold'em, and Moto Chaser. Among the top free iPhone applications are Pandora, Facebook, and Tap Tap Revenge. There's also a top downloaded podcast list. We didn't quite make the top downloaded podcasts list, but hey, there's always next year.

So, if you're looking to find some of the best online content for 2008, look no further than iTunes. You can click here to visit the iTunes Best of 2008 section.

iTunes shows off the best of 2008 originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

iTunes shows off the best of 2008 originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>best of 2008BestOf2008iTunesiTunes StoreItunesStoreCory BohonWed, 03 Dec 2008 09:00:00 ESTBeatles-on-iTunes talks 'stalled' says Paulhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/25/beatles-on-itunes-talks-stalled-says-paul/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/25/beatles-on-itunes-talks-stalled-says-paul/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/25/beatles-on-itunes-talks-stalled-says-paul/#commentsFiled under: iTS, Rumors, Odds and ends

Talks between Apple, Inc., Apple Corps, and EMI to bring the Beatles catalogue to the iTunes Store have "stalled," according to a statement by Paul McCartney to the Associated Press.

McCartney said, "The last word I got back was it's stalled at the whole moment, the whole process." He told the BBC that "heavy negotiations" were in progress with EMI, who said they were "working hard to secure agreement with Apple Corps."

My ill-informed, Captain Obvious guess? Someone's holding out for more money. The AP oddly suggested that the holdup is related to a trademark dispute between Apple Corps and Apple, Inc. which was settled in court last year.

McCartney continued, "I really hope it will happen because I think it should."

[Via Cult of Mac.]

Beatles-on-iTunes talks 'stalled' says Paul originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Beatles-on-iTunes talks 'stalled' says Paul originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>apapple corpsAppleCorpsbeatlesbreakingnewsemimccartneyRobert PalmerTue, 25 Nov 2008 12:00:00 ESTiTunes offers weekly discounted movies/music albumshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/13/itunes-offers-weekly-discounted-movies-music-albums/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/13/itunes-offers-weekly-discounted-movies-music-albums/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/13/itunes-offers-weekly-discounted-movies-music-albums/#commentsFiled under: iTS, iTunes, Deals

Remember the iTunes $.99 rental of the week? This week, they started offering something a little better, but more expensive. Apple launched the iTunes $5 movie of the week. Until next Tuesday (November 18, 2008), the following movies are on sale:

Note that these movies are not rentals. In addition to movies, Apple is also offering iTunes albums of the week. These are $5 full albums. With the economy in a slump, will this encourage you to purchase more movies from iTunes? Tell us what you think about this new iTunes addition by taking part in our poll, and sharing your thoughts in the comments.

iTunes offers weekly discounted movies/music albums originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

iTunes offers weekly discounted movies/music albums originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>5albums of the weekAlbumsOfTheWeekdeals of the weekDealsOfTheWeekiTunesMovies of the weekMoviesOfTheWeekStoreCory BohonThu, 13 Nov 2008 09:00:00 ESTiTunes 101: Deauthorize all computers at oncehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/12/itunes-101-deauthorize-all-computers-at-once/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/12/itunes-101-deauthorize-all-computers-at-once/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/12/itunes-101-deauthorize-all-computers-at-once/#commentsFiled under: iTS, iTunes, Mac 101

Many iTunes users are aware of the 5-computer limit for purchases made through iTunes. But what happens when you reach this limit? Well, you could go to each computer and de-authorize it by going to Store > De-authorize Computer, but this doesn't work if you get rid of a computer and forget to de-authorize it.

If you have reached your 5-computer limit, then launch iTunes, click iTunes Store, and then click your iTunes user name in the top-right corner of the store window. Once you login, you should see a page with all of your account information on it. In the middle of the page, you should see how many computers are currrently authorized. When you reach your 5-computer limit, a new button will appear here called "Deauthorize All." When you click this button, and confirm, your computer limit will start over at zero.

You will then need to re-authorize the computers that you want to keep. From iTunes, go to Store > Authorize Computer.

Update: As many have noted in the comments, this deauthorize all button can only be used one time per year. So, if you only have one or two computers to deauthorize, it might be best to do it manually. You can learn more about iTunes de-authorization on this Apple support note.

Want more tips and tricks like this? Visit TUAW's Mac 101 section.

iTunes 101: Deauthorize all computers at once originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

iTunes 101: Deauthorize all computers at once originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>authorizeationdeauthorize allDeauthorizeAlliTunesitunes music storeitunes storeItunesMusicStoreItunesStoreCory BohonWed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 ESTNew iPod game: Tamagotchihttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/06/new-ipod-game-tamagotchi/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/06/new-ipod-game-tamagotchi/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/06/new-ipod-game-tamagotchi/#commentsFiled under: iPod Family, iTS, iPod nano, iPod classic

This week, Apple added a new game for the iPod nano and iPod classic. Tamagotchi: 'Round the World allows you to take care of a small pet, which you raise from birth. There are four pets to choose from, interactive environmental items, 6 mini games, and three activities to play with your pets.

Tamagotchi was created by Namco, which has other iPod games on the iTunes Store. This game is compatible with iPod nano (3rd & 4th Generations), iPod classic, and iPod 5th Generation (with video). It is available from the iTunes store for $4.99; a demo video is available.

Thanks to everyone who sent this in!

New iPod game: Tamagotchi originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

New iPod game: Tamagotchi originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>5th gen ipod5th generation5thGeneration5thGenIpodclassicgameiPodnanoTamagotchiTamagotchi Round the WorldTamagotchiRoundTheWorldCory BohonThu, 06 Nov 2008 15:05:00 ESTApple's 10K filing shows $3.34 billion in 2008 iTunes saleshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/06/apples-10k-filing-shows-3-34-billion-in-2008-itunes-sales/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/06/apples-10k-filing-shows-3-34-billion-in-2008-itunes-sales/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/11/06/apples-10k-filing-shows-3-34-billion-in-2008-itunes-sales/#commentsFiled under: iTS, Apple Financial

Apple's annual SEC 10K filing showed that music-related sales increased by US$844 million (or 34%) to $3.34 billion in fiscal 2008, up from US$2.5 billion in 2007. Apple cited "heightened consumer interest in downloading third-party digital content" as the reason for the hefty increase.

Apple noted increased net sales from the iTunes Store in each of its geographic regions. An increase in the amount and types of content available at the iTunes stores was pegged as part of this growth.

Apple is the largest U.S. music seller, having knocked Wal-mart from the #1 spot in April of 2008. The revenue figures for the music-related business do not include iPod or iPhone sales.

[via eWeek Apple Watch]

Apple's 10K filing shows $3.34 billion in 2008 iTunes sales originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Apple's 10K filing shows $3.34 billion in 2008 iTunes sales originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>10kapple financialAppleFinancialitunes music storeItunesMusicStoresec filingSecFilingSteven SandeThu, 06 Nov 2008 10:00:00 ESTNew MacBooks adding NVIDIA hardware H.264 decoding?http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/21/new-macbooks-adding-nvidia-hardware-h-264-decoding/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/21/new-macbooks-adding-nvidia-hardware-h-264-decoding/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/21/new-macbooks-adding-nvidia-hardware-h-264-decoding/#commentsFiled under: iTS, Multimedia, Rumors, Macbook Pro, MacBook

Something interesting has popped up with the new NVIDIA graphics hardware in the unibody MacBooks and MacBook Pros: hardware H.264 decoding. MacRumors is reporting that owners of the new MacBooks are seeing considerably less CPU usage when playing high definition H.264 content on the new machines versus the previous generation. One user reported his new MacBook running at only 28% CPU utilization while playing a 1080p video versus 100% for his older MacBook Pro running at the same clock speed.

It's been known for some time that NVIDIA has been including hardware decoding in their chips, but this appears to be the first time that Apple has actually implemented support for it in OS X. Some are speculating that this signals big things for the future of QuickTime X in Apple's forthcoming Snow Leopard (OS X 10.6) and future 1080p video content in the iTunes Store and may be connected to Steve Jobs' recent dismissal of Blu-ray. Of course, none of this has been confirmed by Apple, but it does appear to be the best explanation for the performance increase we're seeing in the new machines.

[via I, Cringley]

New MacBooks adding NVIDIA hardware H.264 decoding? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

New MacBooks adding NVIDIA hardware H.264 decoding? originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>h.264iTunes StoreItunesStoreMacBookMacBook proMacbookPronvidiaMat LuTue, 21 Oct 2008 15:30:00 ESTApple: 200m TV episodes sold, 1m in HDhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/16/apple-200m-tv-episodes-sold-1m-in-hd/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/16/apple-200m-tv-episodes-sold-1m-in-hd/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/16/apple-200m-tv-episodes-sold-1m-in-hd/#commentsFiled under: Apple Corporate, iTS

Apple issued a press release today saying over 200 million television episodes have been purchased through the iTunes store, one million of them in high definition.

High definition episodes have been available since Apple's "Let's Rock" event on September 9. That averages out to over 27,000 HD downloads per day.

The press release also said the iTunes store is offering America's four major networks' fall prime-time lineup in HD for the first time.

Apple was a little late to the HD download game, however. The Xbox 360 introduced HD via Xbox Live way back in November of 2006.

[Via IGM.]

Apple: 200m TV episodes sold, 1m in HD originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Apple: 200m TV episodes sold, 1m in HD originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>hditunesstoreRobert PalmerThu, 16 Oct 2008 13:32:00 ESTYouTube videos gain links to iTunes storehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/08/youtube-videos-gain-links-to-itunes-store/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/08/youtube-videos-gain-links-to-itunes-store/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/08/youtube-videos-gain-links-to-itunes-store/#commentsFiled under: iTS, Internet

YouTube has added links from promotional and music videos to the iTunes store and AmazonMP3, where you can buy the song featured. The links appear on its website, beneath videos like this one.

Currently, EMI appears to be the only major music label participating in the deal. Electronic Arts has links related to its Spore game to Amazon.com, where you can purchase a copy.

Google (whose CEO, Eric Schmidt, is on Apple's board of directors) has been looking for ways to earn money from YouTube, its $1.6 billion purchase from 2006. YouTube probably already earns some revenue from Apple via a partnership that includes a YouTube player on the iPhone and Apple TV, but the financial details are unknown.

[Via Macworld.]

YouTube videos gain links to iTunes store originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

YouTube videos gain links to iTunes store originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>emigoogleipoditunesitunes storeItunesStoreschmidtyoutubeRobert PalmerWed, 08 Oct 2008 21:00:00 ESTiTunes 8.0.1 is availablehttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/02/itunes-8-0-1-is-available/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/02/itunes-8-0-1-is-available/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/02/itunes-8-0-1-is-available/#commentsFiled under: iTS, Software, iTunes, Software Update

Apple released iTunes version 8.0.1 earlier today. This update is 58.8MB in size, and features the following changes:

Seamlessly plays the current song when creating a new Genius playlist.
Improves syncing spoken menus to iPod nano.
Addresses an issue of deleting HD TV episodes when downloading.
Improves checking for updates from the App Store
Improves accessibility with VoiceOver.
Addresses problems syncing Genius results to iPod.

That's quite a detailed release note from Apple! You can get your copy now via Software Update. Let us know if you experience any trouble.

Thanks to everyone who sent this in!

iTunes 8.0.1 is available originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

iTunes 8.0.1 is available originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>breakingnewsitunesitunes storeItunesStoresoftware updateSoftwareUpdateDave CaoloThu, 02 Oct 2008 21:45:00 ESTRoyalty rate stays the same, iTunes Store still openhttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/02/royalty-rate-stays-the-same-itunes-store-still-open/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/02/royalty-rate-stays-the-same-itunes-store-still-open/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/02/royalty-rate-stays-the-same-itunes-store-still-open/#commentsFiled under: Apple Corporate, iTS

The U.S. Copyright Royalty Board decided today to keep rates the same for digital music stores, kneecapping Apple's threat to shut down the iTunes Store rather than operate at a loss.

The three-member board kept the royalty rate at 9.1 cents, and mandated a 24-cent rate for ringtones. The board has never before established mechanical rates for digital files.

"We're pleased with the CRB's decision to keep royalty rates stable," said an unnamed Apple spokesman.

The popularity of Eddy Cue's statement that Apple would shutter the iTunes Store apparently had an effect on the board. "Sure it was posturing," said a music industry source, according to CNET. "I don't think Apple would have gone out of business but a statement like that from the biggest music retailer is going to carry some weight."

[Via CNET.]

Royalty rate stays the same, iTunes Store still open originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Royalty rate stays the same, iTunes Store still open originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>crbcueeddy cueEddyCueitunesnuclearroyaltiesshutdownRobert PalmerThu, 02 Oct 2008 21:00:00 ESTVP: Apple would rather close iTunes Store than pay additional royaltieshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/01/vp-apple-would-rather-close-itunes-store-than-pay-additional-ro/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/01/vp-apple-would-rather-close-itunes-store-than-pay-additional-ro/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/10/01/vp-apple-would-rather-close-itunes-store-than-pay-additional-ro/#commentsFiled under: Apple Corporate, iTS

If a ruling expected tomorrow by the Copyright Royalty Board raises royalties for online music sales from 9 to 15 cents per track, Apple would rather shut the iTunes store down than operate it at a loss.

Them's fightin' words.

Eddy Cue, Apple's iTunes VP, wrote in a statement to the Times of London, "If [iTunes] was forced to absorb any increase in the ... royalty rate, the result would be to significantly increase the likelihood of the store operating at a financial loss -- which is no alternative at all. Apple has repeatedly made it clear that it is in this business to make money, and most likely would not continue to operate [iTunes] if it were no longer possible to do so profitably."

Of course, this is the "nuclear" option. Apple is most likely trying to gain aggressive leverage before the CRB decision is made. Apple is essentially asking music publishers, "do you want all the revenue you've earned through iTunes, or another measly 6 cents per track?" Shrewd, but is it shrewd enough?

Some analysts speculate that Apple is more likely to pass the additional cost on to the consumer, rather than demolish a key slice of their business. What that will do to sales in the U.S. is hard to say.

If the CRB raises royalties, what do you think will happen? Will you continue to buy music online? Sound off in comments.

[Via IGM.]

VP: Apple would rather close iTunes Store than pay additional royalties originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

VP: Apple would rather close iTunes Store than pay additional royalties originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>crbcueeddy cueEddyCueitunesnuclearshutdownRobert PalmerWed, 01 Oct 2008 12:30:00 ESTOriginal Mac appears in Season 2 of "Chuck"http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/29/original-mac-appears-in-season-2-of-chuck/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/29/original-mac-appears-in-season-2-of-chuck/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/29/original-mac-appears-in-season-2-of-chuck/#commentsFiled under: iTS, iTunes, Apple History

If you downloaded the freebie episode of the week from iTunes, then chances are you saw some vintage Apple hardware. That's because episode 1 of Chuck's second season features one of the original Macs in it. It's kinda funny that they're supposed to be building a new system to take over Chuck's job, but they use some really old hardware (at least it's a Mac). Still, this is consistent with last year's premiere, which featured a Mac Plus at the core of the CIA system.

We won't spoil the episode ending, but it involves the Mac blowing up (just sayin'). This is, however, an awesome start to another season of Chuck.

It is ironic that most of the computers in the show are Macs ... despite the fact that it airs on NBC. Get this free episode while you still can! It's definitely worth a watch.

Thanks to everyone who sent this in!

Original Mac appears in Season 2 of "Chuck" originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Original Mac appears in Season 2 of "Chuck" originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Chuckfree episodeFreeEpisodeMacMacsNBCCory BohonMon, 29 Sep 2008 09:00:00 ESTiTunes to gain 6,000 unsigned artistshttp://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/25/itunes-to-gain-6-000-unsigned-artists/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/25/itunes-to-gain-6-000-unsigned-artists/http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/25/itunes-to-gain-6-000-unsigned-artists/#commentsFiled under: Apple Corporate, iTS, iTunes

The good news is that the iTunes Store is about to gain an additional 6,000 artists, and the great news is that they're all unsigned.

Distorted Loop is reporting that Apple has signed a deal with Pure Play Music to add their artists to the iTunes Store, accounting for more that 1 million tracks. eMusic, Amazon and Napster are also a part of the deal.

"The new era of distribution is now," said Richard Labrum, Vice President of Business Affairs at Pure Play, "and we are thrilled to take the leadership role."

Wow, an executive who gets it. Someone send this guy a box of Cuban cigars. I say the more indies in the iTunes Store the better. Recently, I was forced to listen to FM radio (for the first time in years) during a 3-hour car ride. It was torture. Perhaps I've been spoiled by the instant gratification of an iPod -- listening to exactly what I want to hear exactly when I want to hear it -- but I couldn't wait to get out of that car.

I thought, "There must be better music out there." There is, but you won't hear it on commercial radio.

[VIa MacNN]

iTunes to gain 6,000 unsigned artists originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

iTunes to gain 6,000 unsigned artists originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>itunesitunes storeItunesStorepure playPurePlayDave CaoloThu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST