Omnifone takes on iPhone, iTunes
updated 01:20 am EST, Mon February 12, 2007
Omnifone's MusicStation
British firm Omnifone opened the 3GSM expo in Barcelona by announcing a new software music solution for cell phones. Offered as an alternative to non-Apple cell phones, MusicStation aims to offer an iPhone and iTunes-like experience for music playback and organization and simple music purchase--without, however, an tethered PC: MusicStation provides convenient over-the-air music downloads and purchases, challenging Apple's industry-leading iTunes interface. Central to the design is a consciously iPod-influenced jukebox program, according to the company. "Installing on top of any Java or Symbian phone, regardless of carrier, the software is built to recreate the experience of both a dedicated portable music player as well as an online store," Electronista reports. The extra layer will give an iPhone-like experience without the absolute need for a computer, Omnifone claimed. Based on a weekly-subscription model for unlimited downloads, it also automatically recommends concerts, music, and news based on listening habits as well as offers social networking features, according to the report.
not-so-similar service
02/12, 01:50am reply
Sure, it will let you have music and maybe video, but what about stuff you already own? My bet is on this will just be another network-driven profit machine that locks you into only having media bought from them. Personally, I like to have the option of getting mine from anywhere I darn well please - CD's, online stores, DVD's, or any of my personally generated media.
If the idea was that you didn't need a computer, it has a whole lot of drawbacks. In any event, people who would consider having portable media like this who don't have a computer would be vey few indeed.
danviento
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Dec 2005
let the suing begin
02/12, 06:09am reply
Given that the (now settled) patent dispute between Apple and Creative was to do with a hierarchical structure for the navigation of a music library, I can't see how these guys (with an admitted iPod/iTunes "experience") can possibly avoid the ire of both companies! Also, the subscription charge misrepresents the total cost given the additional cost per Kb for the data downloads.
Feathers
Forum Regular
Joined: Oct 1999
agree with feathers...
02/12, 09:29am reply
With Apple's settlement with Creative and acquisition of the Contois intellectual property, there's a more than likely a potential lawsuit here.
lockhartt
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Apr 2000
Destined to fail
02/12, 07:48pm reply
when you find out what the file format is and how nasty it sounds.
bigpoppa206
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jun 2003