One of the staunchest DRM advocates, Universal Music has finally capitulated and decided to test unprotected downloads with consumers. Like many other labels, Universal had previously agreed to only provide digital stores with copy-protected versions of their songs, but the notion has proved less popular with consumers over the past few months. Major labels including EMI have begun selling music without restrictions, primarily through Apple’s iTunes Plus service.

The catch is that while Universal is “testing” the market, they’ve opted to do so by omitting the popular iTunes store and choosing RealNetworks’ Rhapsody, Wal-Mart and Amazon’s download services. Of course, the problem with testing using those stores is that almost no one uses them. It is somewhat self-fulfilling to release DRM-free music on stores with tiny audiences, and then declare that no one wants DRM-free music.

At the same time, the decision is not entirely surprising as Universal has become wary of Apple’s domination of the digital music industry and the corresponding power it has over the majors. Despite being the largest of the major labels, the company has seen increasing pressure to adapt to the modern marketplace.
Source One of the staunchest DRM advocates, Universal Music has finally capitulated and decided to test unprotected downloads with consumers. Like many other labels, Universal had previously agreed to only provide digital stores with copy-protected versions of their songs, but the notion has proved less popular with consumers over the past few months. Major labels including EMI have begun selling music without restrictions, primarily through Apple’s iTunes Plus service.

The catch is that while Universal is “testing” the market, they’ve opted to do so by omitting the popular iTunes store and choosing RealNetworks’ Rhapsody, Wal-Mart and Amazon’s download services. Of course, the problem with testing using those stores is that almost no one uses them. It is somewhat self-fulfilling to release DRM-free music on stores with tiny audiences, and then declare that no one wants DRM-free music.

At the same time, the decision is not entirely surprising as Universal has become wary of Apple’s domination of the digital music industry and the corresponding power it has over the majors. Despite being the largest of the major labels, the company has seen increasing pressure to adapt to the modern marketplace.
Source