Apple ending iTunes LP featured albums


The Verge:

Apple has confirmed to The Verge that it will stop taking new iTunes LP submissions as of this month. The format, which was launched in 2009, was a way for users to buy albums with bundled elements, like videos, liner notes, or bonus tracks.

Earlier today, UK-based website Metro claimed to have a leaked internal email from Apple sent to music producers titled "The End of iTunes LPs." The email supposedly stated that "Apple will no longer accept new submissions of iTunes LPs after March 2018," and that "existing LPs will be deprecated from the store during the remainder of 2018. Customers who have previously purchased an album containing an iTunes LP will still be able to download the additional content using iTunes Match."

iTunes LP seemed a way for Apple to throw record labels a bone. Apple did some extra work to present a value-added experience for fans willing to pay for an alumni experience. The big draw is fans will buy a bundle of tracks like traditional albums rather than just their favorite songs.