MS responds to rumors

Microsoft has responded to reports that the software giant is developing a digital media player to compete with Apple's market-leading iPod, claiming that such reports are based on rumor and speculation. Microsoft said it has nothing to announce at this time, denying statements from unnamed music industry executives who said they received briefings about the alleged product, according to BBC News. Earlier today a report surfaced suggesting that Microsoft will, in conjunction with its presumed "iPod-killer," offer consumers free musical tracks to match those already purchased from Apple's iTunes Music Store in an attempt to lure consumers away from the iPod/iTunes ecosystem. Apple's competitors have failed to dent the company's successful leadership of the digital music industry so far, continuously falling short of claims that consumers will warm up to non-iPod products and services.

by MacNN Staff