Late last week, Apple finally posted all the pertinent developer tools needed (such as templates, testing metrics etc.) to create engaging and eye-catching iTunes LPs for both albums and movies. And best yet, all of the tools are based entirely on open web standards.
When Apple released iTunes 9 not too long ago, it also unveiled iTunes LP which provides a whole new twist on the digital music download experience. Albums available in the iTunes LP format include a plethora of content not ordinarily found in digital downloads. For example, iTunes LP albums typically include extras such as liner notes, lyrics, rare and perhaps never before seen photos, and exclusive interviews with the band. It goes without saying that iTunes LPs are a great way for diehard music fans to interact more closely with their favorite musicians.
iTunes LP’s naturally provide a richer music experience, and though they cost more than a standalone album, it delivers a lot more content. Shortly after Apple showcased the new iTunes LP feature, word began to spread that Apple was charging hefty production fees for Indie artists who wanted to participate in Apple’s latest music initiative. This of course resulted in your standard Apple backlash, but Apple representatives soon came out and said that those earlier reports were untrue and that it would soon provide all the necessary tools musicians and labels would need to create their own iTunes LP, sans any exorbitant production fees.
And that day has now arrived.
Late last week, Apple finally posted all the pertinent developer tools needed (such as templates, testing metrics etc.) to create engaging and eye-catching iTunes LPs for both albums and movies. And best yet, all of the tools are based entirely on open web standards.
Artists, however, might have to wait a bit to bear the fruits of their labor. Apple notes on the site:
Automatic, electronic submission of your iTunes LP or Extra is scheduled for the first quarter of 2010. Until then, the submission process is manual and limited. Please contact your label or studio rep for details and consideration. An existing iTunes contract is required. Your iTunes LP or iTunes Extras will be reviewed by the iTunes team for appropriateness of content and for technical quality.
Hopefully, though, many the horror stories regarding app store submissions won’t reappear with iTunes LP submissions. In any event, having downloaded 2 iTunes LPs already, the iTunes Music Store is going to get a lot more interesting once iTunes LPs become standard fare for artists.
