iTunes Update Will Focus on Social Sharing Rather Streaming?

Music executives say they do expect a big overhaul of the iTunes store next Wednesday but they say it will be social, not streaming, according to a MediaMemo report.

Industry executives say Apple hasn't approached the labels for new license deals that would allow a streaming "locker" service. Rather, they are expecting Apple to unveil a lightweight, Web-based version of the iTunes that will include social features to share musical tastes with friends.

Right now, you can get to the iTunes store only by using a downloaded program on your Mac or iPhone/iPod/iPad. But a Web-based version would allow buyers to get there without having to quit other applications. And if Apple makes it easier for services like Twitter and Facebook to link into the store and share recommendations, playlists and the like, then you can imagine some pretty interesting possibilities.


“There’s a reason Steve Jobs calls it an iPod–he thinks you listen to music by yourself, on your headphones,” says a label executive. “But lots of people like to share music, and if this lets you do that, that’s exciting.”

It's also thought that Apple could offer a service to keep your iTunes purchases in sync between devices.