iTunes shifts to tiered pricing as more tracks stripped of DRM

by Stevie Smith - Jan 7 2009, 13:00

Apple’s presentation at Macworld 2009 may have been given for the first time in more than a decade without the assistance of Steve Jobs, but the gadget and computer giant certainly had one or two announcements that partially eclipsed the loss of their iconic chief executive officer.

Specifically, Apple has revealed that its single per-song pricing structure on music download store iTunes will soon shift to a three-tier system. Set to be officially introduced from April of 2009, Apple’s new pricing policy will see individual songs available at $0.69 USD, $0.99 USD, and $1.29 USD.

The prices, while initially suggesting a good deal for iTunes users, will see hot new releases pushed up to $1.29 USD, while popular best-sellers will be set at the old $0.99 USD price point, and old and unpopular tracks will sell for $0.69 USD.

Apple’s move towards staggered pricing has apparently been forced by persistent pressure from the music industry. Yet, while desirable new tracks are on the brink of a $0.30 USD price increase come the spring, Cupertino-based Apple has attempted to reduce any resultant sting.

Met by a smattering of applause from gathered event attendees, Apple confirmed that it is to release a further 2 million iTunes tracks from the shackles of contentious DRM copy protection, which will take the DRM-free track total to a full 10 million.

And, adding a little extra Macworld spice for iPhone 3G owners in the U.S., Apple said it will also begin offering iTunes content directly to its touch-screen smartphone through AT&T’s high-speed network.

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