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 September 13, 2026 3:00 am PDT by Eric Slivka
Update 10:04 a.m.: iOS 27 is rolling out now, though it may take a bit for all users to see it, so keep checking!
Apple is about to release iOS 27, which will finally deliver more advanced Siri AI capabilities as well as a variety of other refinements, improvements, and new features to iPhones. It's Apple's biggest software update of the year, and Apple announced at Wednesday's iPhone event...
Monday September 14, 2026 9:00 am PDT by Joe Rossignol
Update — 10 a.m. Pacific Time: Apple has released iOS 27.
During its iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo event last week, Apple announced that iOS 27 will be released widely on Monday, September 14.
iOS 27 should be available around 10 a.m. Pacific Time / 1 p.m. Eastern Time today via the Settings app, under General → Software Update.
Below, we have highlighted eight new features and...
Tuesday September 15, 2026 1:43 am PDT by Tim Hardwick
Apple today announced a new subscription initiative that turns paid iCloud+ subscriptions into a broader services bundle in more than 100 countries.
In select countries, Apple says every paid iCloud+ plan, including the cheapest 50GB tier, now includes Apple TV and Apple Arcade "at no additional cost," while family sharing extends the storage, TV and Arcade access to up to five people....
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.
