Dec 20, 2005 • 1 min read

HP expected to re-enter music space in 2006

Hewlett Packard is expected to launch its own music products in 2006 after its Apple partnership ended, possibly using a Microsoft-based DRM system.

There's some speculation as to what moves Hewlett Packard will make in the digital music space in 2006. As previously reported, HP originally dabbled in download space through a partnership with Apple. It made HP co-branded iPods and installed iTunes on its PCs. That relationship ended after former HP CEO Carly Fiorina left the company, though the company is committed to bundling in iTunes on its new PCs until the end of next month. But what then? Insiders say HP will look to launch its own music products in the New Year rather than partnering with others, most likely using a Microsoft based DRM system. There has been no real official word from HP regarding its music ambitions, although Executive VP Todd Bradley did tell investment types last week that the company do plan to re-enter into the space next year, somewhat stating the obvious in his observation: "It's going to boil down to who can create a solution that lets you get the music you want, when you want it, and where you want it".

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