Features live HD streaming, replays of performances

Apple's annual iTunes Festival, held in London across the whole of September, will kick off September 1 for both attendees and Apple users everywhere -- thanks to a pair of apps that allow iOS and Apple TV users to see both live streams and limited-time replays of the concerts. The free concert series features top performers such as Hot Chip, Bat for Lashes, the Killers, Mumford & Sons, Deadmau5, Jack White, One Direction and many others.

Following the streaming on Apple TV of a Paul McCartney concert in February, Apple now plans to push an update to Apple TV that will include the iTunes Festival "channel" on the main menu, letting users watch live or enjoy replays of the performances, reports AppleInsider. Fans can see the show through their computer's web browser (from the main iTunes Festival page, broadband access required), or using the iOS or Apple TV options. The iOS app can also stream the concerts to an Apple TV using AirPlay, as last year's version did.

A total of 60 artists will be playing across the 30-night event, which is being held in Camden's famous Roundhouse concert venue. For those in London, tickets can be obtained through a lottery system at no cost.

The iOS app features a calendar schedule, artist information and links to buy songs or albums from the performers in iTunes. Some performances from the concert series are likely to become available as songs or videos that can be bought on iTunes after the run is over. The universal iOS app is free, while the change to Apple TV will arrive in the form of a software update. For some users, a restart of the Apple TV device may be necessary to force the update. [via AppleInsider]

by MacNN Staff