Apple have acted directly against their previous statements, dropping music downloads from the iTunes Store in Korea, one of the largest music markets in the world.
Apple confirmed in May that they did not have plans to drop music downloads from the Apple iTunes store, despite contrary rumours. Now, Apple have made it clear that music downloads are soon to be no more as they have removed this previously critical feature from their iTunes upgrade in South Korea.
This removal comes hand in hand with the introduction of Apple Music to the South Korean market, signalling an obvious attempt by the company to push users towards the Apple Music streaming service, costing at least $7.99 a month.
South Korea is the eighth largest music market in the world, dominated by independents which has proven to cause Apple quite a lot of difficulty in their negotiations as they have failed to get all of the major labels on board with Apple Music. However, Apple are offering higher royalties to artists in Korea compared to local players according to industry sources which will put increased pressure on local labels and might tip the balance in Apple's favour.
Ultimately, this move has made many people question when Apple will dissolve the download feature in the likes of the United States and Europe; just another demonstration of Apple's hold over the world.
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Shawn Mendes
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