The iPod Changes the Recording Industry for Consumers

The most widely used mp3 player is of course the iPod which was introduced by Apple in 2001.  Seven plus generations of iPod later, not only is music available but movies, games and photo slideshows also make up the popular device. 

The iPod is made by Apple, but what makes the medium so user friendly is that it is compatible to windows so therefore those who do not own Macs can still use the service.  Going back to mp3s being computer based, every iPod “lives” inside of your computer on a program known as iTunes.  Every music file is backed up in the iTunes Library so that in the event an iPod is lost or stolen, the music you’ve purchased isn’t. 

The iPod has distinguished itself amongst other mp3 music players and all other modern recording mediums as the iTunes program includes the iTunes store allowing users to download music (.99 cents per song in many cases) without ever leaving their computer seat.  Not can a listener obtain singles, but iTunes offers full albums at $9.99 per album, considerably cheaper then purchasing a CD from a music store.  

In the past five years iPod and iTunes sales have been at a record high.  Many record companies are still monetizing with Apple selling singles via iTunes as they own the rights to the music.  The issue many record labels have is individuals using iPods to store illegally downloaded music as many iPods have large hard drives.  Record labels will continue to fight on behalf of the artists they represent making sure they have exposure on the internet while being able to monetize from music downloads.

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