Are you frustrated with the lack of accessibility to your iTunes library from multiple devices? It seems that you’re not alone. A recent study by the NPD group shows that iTunes users would be willing to pay monthly subscription fees for an iTunes cloud service to make their media files more accessible.
The study, referred to as the “iTunes Usage Report”, gauged the reactions of iTunes, iPod, iPod Touch, and iPhone users when posed with the possibility of various subscription-based service models. More than a quarter of those surveyed showed “strong interest” in a free cloud-based media service, but several others expressed willingness to pay for the option.
"Between 7 million and 8 million iTunes users in the U.S. would have strong interest in one of the paid subscription options," the NPD study concluded. "These consumers indicated a willingness to pay a minimum monthly fee of $10--either for streaming music or access to their personal music libraries on multiple devices."
Details regarding the concept cloud-based service have not yet been released. We do know, however, that Apple has been working toward such an offering since, at least, early this year. Also, CNET has reported that Apple has not yet discussed details with the top four music labels.
The pressure is definitely on for Apple to come up with a winning multi-platform, cloud music service for iTunes users. Google has been rumored to be working on an online music service for more than a year now. No firm plans have been confirmed, but with the acquisition of Simplify Media in May, a Google-backed music service is likely closer to reality.
Would such a service be valuable enough for you to pay a minimum monthly fee of $10 to access your iTunes library from multiple devices? I’m not sure that I would, but it looks like I’ll have several months to think it over.
