James Delahunty
1 Apr 2007 16:58
An announcement expected from Apple Computer Inc. and EMI Group Plc. to reveal "an exciting new digital offering," at an event on Monday stirred speculation that Beatles music would be making its way to iTunes. However, a source has told Reuters that while there is in fact a deal between the two, it doesn't include the Beatles catalog. "There is no Beatles' announcement," the source said.
EMI will hold an event in London on Monday. EMI Chief Executive Eric Nicoli will be accompanied by Steve Jobs according to emails sent to reporters. JupiterResearch analyst Michael Gartenberg said a deal between the two may address a range of issues, but a Beatles distribution agreement is very unlikely.
"While the Beatles are the obvious choice, the invitation does mention a 'special live performance' and it is clear that that live performance does not cover the Beatles," Gartenberg said. "There are a lot of other possibilities." One (perhaps small) possibility may be that Apple and EMI have come to an agreement to experiment with DRM-free downloads
Source:
Reuters