In today's digital age, there are a number of different ways to enjoy music. While it is still possible to go to a traditional music store to purchase a tangible item, like a CD, those days are rapidly fading. And the age of the LP seems as distant to most of us as the age of the dinosaurs. For most people today and in the future, software programs like iTunes for Windows will be the primary way in which music is purchased and listened to.
As a Music Player
It is safe to say that the MP3 is the most widely used music format today, surpassing the CD and essentially killing the cassette tape. The genius behind the MP3 is how easily it can be both played and stored. Because an MP3 exists as a file on a computer's hard drive, there must be a software program on the computer to play it. Once a music player has been installed on a computer, it acts like a CD player; MP3 files can be played, paused, skipped, and restarted instantly. But that's where the similarities end. Because MP3s are files, an entire library of music can be stored, and custom-made playlists can be created.
As an Online Store
Additionally, programs like iTunes for Windows act as a one-stop shop for music lovers. By connecting to the iTunes store, customers can purchase and download MP3s to their computers instantly for as little as ninety-nine cents. The convenience here is obvious; customers do not have to leave their homes and music can be purchased and paid for on a whim. Also, customers have the choice of only buying one track instead of an entire album.
What All of This Means
So, how has the digitalization of music changed the industry? Basically, there are too many changes to list. However, a handful of major changes underscore how important this transition has become:
- Illegal downloading: Once music went digital and online, illegal trading of files prompted the industry to embrace downloading or go out of business. Sharing networks such as Napster were the inspiration for the online stores we see today, such as iTunes for Windows.
- Music stores: The days of driving to a music store and browsing for an hour before making an important music purchase are coming to an end. Once music has gone completely digital, music stores will be rendered obsolete.
- The products: As the format of music changes, so does the way music is played. And portable MP3 players like the iPod are now as ubiquitous as the Walkman was twenty years ago. Also, products that would not have been associated with music just ten years ago are now being customized to play MP3 files, such as cell phones.
Ultimately, it is and always will be about the music. But how we listen to that music, and how we share it and buy it, has never been as important as it is today.
Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about itunes for Windows, please visit Music Downloading Today for current articles and discussions. |
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