Napster climbed back into the ring by launching the worlds largest mp3 catalogue, challenging Apple’s iTunes store. Did I mention the catalogue consists of 6 million DRM free mp3s?

Even though Steve Jobs did take the initiative to address the need for DRM free music in a letter in February of 2007. The iTunes store has lagged in living up to the DRM free expectations Jobs set. Apple’s iTunes currently only sells an estimated 2 million DRM free songs in the itunes plus section. Amazon has made a successful effort in providing 5.2 million DRM free mp3’s. Napster just beat them by a hair. I do have to say I am an avid fan of Apple and their products, they just work for the you. However, I have noticed a reemerging trend by Apple to neglect consumer freedom.

Forget that they have done a less than average job of providing DRM free songs, they also expect you to pay again to unlock the DRM songs previously purchased on iTunes. Apples neglect for consumer freedom spans past the walls of the iTunes store.

Their iPhone as innovative as it is, ultimately confines the user to a limited phone experience by locking them in to one carrier. They could have just as easily supplied a GSM unlocked phone, but they would miss out on the shared subscription fees they get from providers such as AT&T in the US. The phone also has many limitations, such as not being able to store your contacts on the SIM card and having to pay an extra $0.99 to make a ring-tone from songs solely purchased on iTunes.

On the flip side, Apple continues to grow its market share in the iPod, phone and PC markets. Don’t get me wrong, I think Apple is one of the most innovative companies out there, but they should start thinking more about the consumers needs for freedom and flexibility. I have an iphone and think its the best phone I have ever had, even with the flaws. I guess some people are willing to sacrifice a little freedom for some things, but how much freedom?

Waiting for the next hook,
Shaun