Earlier, these same sources pointed to an ‘early 2019’ shutdown, though internal roadmaps now include a March 31st, 2019 phase-out of the service. The sources clarified that this would only be the announcement date. Effectively, that will set in motion the shutdown, with users given ample warning of the upcoming phase-out. Additionally, the sources stressed that music downloads will always work on all Apple devices and the iTunes platform, across all versions.
That includes music purchased on iTunes, or uploaded from any other source. So you’ll always be able to play MP3s, iTunes-purchased AACs, and even older, DRM-protected iTunes songs (many years ago, song downloads were ‘DRM protected,’ creating limitations on file-sharing and other uses). Other variations, including ‘iTunes Plus’ downloads and video downloads, will always be playable. You’ll also be able to manage your music download collection on iTunes without issue.
Apple will only be ending its paid download offering. Also, older iPods, including iPod shuffles and iPod video players, will all keep working and playing song downloads. That’s worth noting for people that prefer their older, disconnected devices for off-grid listening. Or, just something simpler for a jog, workout, or dog walk.
No, you can’t upgrade your iPod, but at least it won’t turn into a brick. And iTunes synching will always work (though we’re not sure it will be upgraded over time). Initially, Apple denied that any termination plans existed. That has now changed. As noted, a top Apple Music executive confirmed that music downloads would be terminated.
But an exact date wasn’t supplied. “If I’m honest, it’s when people stop buying,” the executive, Jimmy Iovine, told the BBC. Iovine has played a critical role in the development of Apple Music, which now boasts 40 million paying subscribers. On top of that, an additional 6-7 million may be trialling the service.
That is rapidly catching up to Spotify’s 71 million, and underscores the huge shift away from downloads (paid or otherwise). Indeed, a major issue for Spotify’s future growth forecast is Apple, which is arguably already bigger than Spotify. In terms of revenue, Apple Music already appears to be generating more income, thanks to higher per-subscriber rates and the absence of an expensive ad-based free tier. Throughout, Iovine has been a vocal critic of ad-based streaming, given its tendency to devalue music and dramatically lower artist payouts.
Amazingly, Apple’s paid-only approach is working. 9.99 monthly accounts isn’t easy. Now, it appears that Apple is looking accelerate that transition for later-adopting music fans and finally surpass Spotify’s early lead. I really hate you. This fake news stuff has to stop. Sure about that one, Apple’s denials seem like the “fake news” to me.
DMN’s been spot on. — some of it sticks, some doesn’t. But, within that article, they lay out that a 3-4yr (and maybe longer) plan was also being considered. Safe journalism. Be aggressive with your headline, but cover your bases with a more conservative (and probably obvious) footnote that you can link to years later to validate your reporting.
It’s just funny. It’s like the Apple PR machine tries to wage war on this story even though they’re shutting their product. Steve Jobs would have closed this 3 years ago at least. Spot on except for all the click bait headlines. No, Apple is not shutting down iTunes downloads on March 31, 2019. Even if they announce the shutdown on that date, any effective shutdown would be years into the future.
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