[koudi]

> iTunes invented modern online music distribution. I believe it was actually Napster, who invented modern distribution :)

Now seriously - iTunes is kinda OK-ish, but web purchase/download could only increase their customer base. Their whole ecosystem works nicely, but I believe that customers will soon require more open approach rather than tying everything to one platform.

[vvhn]

you're forgetting that all of Apple's digital storefronts , online services exist for only one reason - as accessories and support systems to their hardware ( Macs and iGadgets ). The only reason iTunes on Windows exists is to increase the addressable market for iPods, iPhones and iPads ( not to increase the addressable market of the iTunes Store itself - but it comes as a side effect of the first one).

[koudi]

True, although such strict lock-in seems to be counter-productive. For example - I have iPad (and love reading on it), but I never buy books on iBooks Store. I use amazon instead, because I can easily strip DRM and convert to any format I want and read anywhere I want (should I ever buy different device). iBooks books are tied to apple devices for ever.

This strategy may work for now, but I don't think it's viable in a long term and apple always seemed to prefer bigger picture rather than pursue immediate profits.

[cremnob]

It is long-term. Opening up iBooks to any device or just being available on the web would increase profits immediately. Building out the ecosystem is the long-term part.