LONDON, April 2 (UPI) -- British music giant EMI Group PLC said Monday it would start selling much of its music without anti-copying software.
The third-largest recording company, which made its announcement with Apple Inc. Chief Executive Officer Steve Jobs, said it would sell songs through Apple's iTunes store beginning next month and possibly later through other online outlets.
Consumer groups and others, particularly in Europe, have criticized Apple for making music purchased on iTunes compatible only with Apple's own iPod music player.
By providing downloads without the anti-copying "digital-rights management" software, "we aim to address the lack of interoperability, which is frustrating for many music fans," EMI CEO Eric Nicoli said.
Apple said iTunes would sell individual EMI tracks, with their DRM removed, at twice the sound quality of existing downloads for $1.29.
ITunes will continue offering tracks with standard sound quality and DRM still applied, for 99 cents, Apple said.
Customers who have already purchased standard tracks with DRM may upgrade to DRM-free tracks for 30 cents.
