CNet reports that Apple is actively trying to lock down worldwide cloud-music rights for a possible October 4th launch.
Sources familiar with the discussions between Apple, record companies, and music publishers, say Apple is seeking international music licenses for its iCloud service. The licenses would be similar to those the company has already obtained for U.S. operations, the sources said.
CNet believes if the negotiations wrap up in time, they could be part of Apple's October 4th media event where the company is expected to launch the next generation iPhone. Deals are reportedly close but "nothing is signed".
Apple's iCloud service offers a number of different backup and syncing services over the air. In particular, they allow users to re-download previously purchased music. And with the addition of iTunes Match, allow users to match and store all their music in the cloud. Amongst the countries that could see iCloud agreements are Germany, France and the UK.
Previous estimates had pegged UK support to be delayed until 2012.
Sunday November 8, 2026 7:42 am PST by Joe Rossignol
Apple has made a change to its development process for iOS 28, macOS 28, and corresponding software updates, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
In his Power On newsletter today, he said Apple separates development of each year's new operating systems into three major stages. Typically, he said each stage consists of four weeks of coding followed by a four-week "convergence" period where...
Monday November 9, 2026 4:22 am PST by Tim Hardwick
The Apple launches keep coming! The company is set to release two new products on Friday, November 13: the all-new Apple HomeView and the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, both of which have been available to pre-order since mid-October.
Apple HomeView: Apple's new smart home display, powered by Apple Intelligence with Siri AI, for entertainment and managing the home. Available in tabletop and...
Friday November 6, 2026 3:27 pm PST by Juli Clover
When the iPhone Duo launched, we shared a list of some of the fun apps developers created for the new form factor. Two weeks out, developers are continuing to come up with fresh ideas, so we thought we'd share some of our favorites.
Games
Marbles Unhinged ($2.99) - Marbles Unhinged is a marble maze designed for the Duo. When you fold it, the floor turns into a ramp. If you stand the top...
first we get movies in europe, and now we get this? love it!
They need to kill regional license deals with fire! We finally have the iTunes movie store here now (Netherlands), and the purchase of an HD movie in iTunes (720p remember) is $5 more expensive than buying the bluray (1080p) in the store. Why would I buy a digital file if I can have the same (or even better) for less money and not have the fuss of making backups etc. to protect my digital purchase?
I think these media producers need a little bit of education about elasticity.
I just wonder about pricing; the local Apple site used to say that iTunes Match will cost US$24.99/year, and now it doesn't mention pricing at all. I suspect that Apple's going to charge more than the previously-announced price :(
No they won't. I've already been charged because of the beta. I dont think Apple would increase it. That would make some devs angry.
CNet reports that Apple is actively trying to lock down worldwide cloud-music rights for a possible October 4th launch.
