The music industry has once again decided the reason people aren't spending as much money on their product is packaging. In order to correct this perceived packaging shortfall they've decided to introduce a new format called the ringle.
A ringle is a CD single containing a couple of songs and a credit to get a ringtone from some third party provider. With the exception of Sony BMG, all the major labels are still working on deals with ringtone providers.
The format is expected to launch next month. Sony plans to start selling 50 titles during October and November, while Universal Music should have 10-20.
Major retailers from Wal-Mart to Amazon.com are already planning to support the format, which is expected to have a profit margin for them either slightly less or slightly more than CDs, depending on the suggested retail price.
Like other music industry efforts in the last several years, this does nothing to increase the amount or improve the quality of new music releases. Perhaps this time around it will turn out differently than all the rest.
Source: Reuters
The format is expected to launch next month. Sony plans to start selling 50 titles during October and November, while Universal Music should have 10-20.
Major retailers from Wal-Mart to Amazon.com are already planning to support the format, which is expected to have a profit margin for them either slightly less or slightly more than CDs, depending on the suggested retail price.
Like other music industry efforts in the last several years, this does nothing to increase the amount or improve the quality of new music releases. Perhaps this time around it will turn out differently than all the rest.
Source: Reuters
