DRM is dead: Amazon MP3 adds Sony BMG content

Sony BMG announced an agreement with Amazon.com to become the fourth and final major label selling its back catalog via the online retailer's MP3 store, effectively heralding the end of digital rights management software in the U.S. market. The move also positions Amazon's digital music store as a legitimate threat to Apple's iTunes storefront, the longtime market leader. "This is such an exciting day for us and our customers," said Amazon vice president for digital music Bill Carr in an interview with The New York Times. "All four major labels will be part of our service. It means our customers will really have access to all the biggest artists in the world."

Launched in September 2007, Amazon MP3 features over 3.1 million songs from more than 270,000 artists--Universal Music Group and EMI Group joined the store at launch, followed in December by Warner Music Group. Beyond the four major labels, the site also features catalogs from over 33,000 independent imprints. While most iTunes downloads are 99 cents and compatible solely with Apple devices, Amazon tracks range from 89 cents to more than a dollar, and may be played on any portable music device.

For more on the Amazon/Sony BMG deal:
- read this release

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