iTMS for international iTunes Music Store users


MacSlash reader "Kriegman" writes that he's found a way for those living outside the US to purchase music via Apple's iTunes Music Store, which has been credited with single-handedly "reviving" the "ailing" music industry.

Here's how one goes about getting a useable credit card and then registering to download iTMS music:

"I've worked out a way for international Apple users to use the iTunes music store. You need to purchase a ?disposable? MasterCard from Webcertificate. (Yes you will need to use another card to buy it and it costs more then the value you get; in my case a $20.00 value cost $22.95) Now you send the certificate to yourself, and put in all the information but use a US address. In my case I used: Homer Simpson 123 Fake St. Grand Rapids, MI. 49506 --(NOTE: Use a real city and correct Zip Code! Some places check that). The name, address, and phone number however can be bogus. Once that is all in, log in again and get your USA billing address Credit Card! SIDE NOTE: Make sure you keep all the information you input handy, since you will need it at the Apple Store!"

Well, I suspect this method is not exactly legal - lying in this context is at the very least a "sin." However, I doubt even the RIAA actually gives a you know what as long they get paid.

It's worth re-iterating that people living outside that have a credit card that's billed to a US address can download iTMS tracks simply by resetting the Time Zone preference in the Date & Time preference pane to someplace in the Northern Hemisphere.

Editor's note: What do you think? Is it worth it? That's about a 15 percent markup just for the privilege. Any takers among you?