Universal Tapulous deal

Universal Music has contracted Tapulous to develop iPhone apps based on the label's most popular groups or artists, according to mocoNews. The game developer, known for such titles as Tap Tap Revenge, has already produced a number of apps featuring bands such as Dave Matthews, Coldplay, Nine Inch Nails, Weezer, Rise Against and Lady Gaga. Tapulous CEO Bart Decrem claims the Universal negotiations involve roughly a half dozen new apps, including titles for Eminem and Black Eyed Peas.

The upcoming iPhone firmware provides several new ways for developers to make money from content. In-app purchases will be enabled, a function which Tapulous intends to utilize for selling tracks. Starting in July, users will have the option to purchase songs for 50 cents from within the apps. The expanded capabilities also provide options to listen to the purchases without leaving the app interface.

Although current Tapulous titles center around the "Tap Tap" theme, Decrem claims the company is creating a new kind of musical game play. The executive declined to provide more details on the project or terms of the deal with Universal.

by MacNN Staff