Apple to open iTunes LP standard for independent labels
updated 01:35 pm EDT, Tue October 13, 2009
Tech currently limited to majors
Apple will "soon" open the iTunes LP standard to everyone, according to a company spokesperson. The format extends iTunes' digital liner notes to allow for DVD-like features, such as photo galleries, elaborate artwork and supplemental video. That material has so far been reserved for the four major record labels however, which include Warner, EMI, Sony BMG and Universal.
The policy has drawn fire from at least one independent label, which notes that it and others have not had access to LP. When the format does expand its reach, it will be through open specifications. The spokesperson adds that no production fees will be imposed.
The LP and Extras features introduced in iTunes 9 are built around new JavaScript framework: called TuneKit, the standard is not only aimed at supporting interactive bonus media, but handling it without the need for plug-ins such as Flash, typically used to deal with animations.
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got to call BS
anyone that watched the Keynote heard Steve Jobs flat out say that the LP format was going to be created by the artists. that Apple was going to 'give them the tools' etc.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xf-US618qFI
the only reason the majors are the only players during this 4 week period is that all new formats need a test run. that's all this period has been, the test to check for kinks.
but Apple never set out to block the indies, or to create some in house money maker by forcing folks to pay them to make the LPs