iTunes music, video expected to hit seven more Asian regions
updated 05:25 pm EDT, Tue June 26, 2012
Launch could be announced Wednesday
Apple is on the verge of announcing iTunes music, movies, and TV shows for several important Asian regions, sources say. An event is allegedly planned for tomorrow in Hong Kong; it may play host to musician Jason Mraz, as well as representatives from a number of Asian music labels. The labels are said to have been in talks with Apple as of last week, which may still be ongoing. New launch regions are believed to include Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.
Movie listings have reportedly already gone live on local iTunes Stores, and navigation bars mention music, even though the section isn't yet accessible. Still completely missing are references to TV shows, which could imply that TV won't be available at launch.
Notably, the regions mentioned already have access to apps, podcasts, free books, and iTunes U. Apps are now more important to Apple than content like music, since they form the raison d'ętre for devices like the iPhone and the iPad. While music and movies are available in about 50 countries, the App Store is accessible in 155.


