Napster鈥檚 new mobile system, which will allow users to download unlimited quantities of music direct onto MP3 players for a monthly fee, is being touted by the company as a move that will 鈥渢urn the traditional music business model on its head鈥.
Although only five portable devices will be able to support the new service initially, Napster claimed this week that a further 18 will be on the market within three months.
Chris Gorog, Napster chairman and chief executive, said: 鈥淥ur dream has been to offer music fans the key to the world鈥檚 music library for a low monthly cost, and by extending online access to those on the move we have put in place the final piece of the jigsaw in delivering the most innovative, versatile and best value music service on the planet.
The bitter battle between Napster and Apple has increased over the last six months as the launch of Itunes and a massive roll-out of its Ipods 鈥 including the new mini version 鈥 has taken hold.
Apple鈥檚 massive consumer marketing campaign, which featured global rockers U2, has seen demand for the Ipod exceed the expectations of many industry commentators and High Street retailers install waiting lists for hardware.
Gorog said: 鈥淭he biggest brand in digital music has once again underlined its pedigree as an industry pioneer and we are extremely proud that Napster is first to market with this revolutionary new way to enjoy music.鈥
By Kevin May
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