HYPEBOT FEATURES:
- Googles' VP Engineering to head EMI's digital push. Many challenges are ahead.
- The Orchard's losses jump even as revenues double
> CondeNast's Portfolio looks at the strong reaction to its recent article which r
evealed WMG's plan for an ISP tax on music. (Portfolio)
> Is an iTunes "digital booklet" worth $4? Digital Audio Insider notes that is the only difference between the $13.99 iTunes version of the new R.E.M. album and the $9.99 "bonus track" version on Amazon.com. (DigitalAudioInsider) It appears Amazon has dropped the price to $8.99 now. Despite the lower price Amazom still needs to start delivering digital booklets as well and without the higher price tag.
> Red Bull Records steps closer to reality. (FMQB)
> PirateBay tells the IFPI and labels suing the, to "go screw themselves". (ars) If this defense has legal merit in Sweden; I'm moving there.
> Mobile operator 3UK and SonyBMG have launched ad supported videos. (press release)
> PassAlong Networks has added Syntax Distribution’s music catalog to its StoreBlocks library. Syntax is the most recent in a string of indie labels offering mp3's via PassAlong including Wind-up, Razor & Tie and Curb. (press release) I don't understand why more entrepeneurs aren't using Storeblocks to niche download stores.
> The recording and film industries have combined piracy efforts in Mexico. (IFPI)
> WORTHY CLICK: Hypster.com , a music discovery site, crossed the 300,000 registered user mark yesterday.
