Rock band U2 has announced plans in partnership with consumer tech giant Apple to launch a new digital music format.
In an interview with Time magazine, the band revealed the joint venture that intends to tempt music fans away from attaining songs and albums through piracy and encourage them to purchase music legally.
The news comes on the back of last week’s release of U2’s 13th studio album Songs of Innocence. The LP was immediately distributed for free to iTunes users following the unveiling of the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus and Apple Watch. However, the move was met with disdain by some who objected to the songs appearing in their collection without prior warning or permission. In response, Apple earlier this week provided software to allow users to remove the LP.
“Some customers asked for the ability to delete Songs of Innocence from their library, so we set up itunes.com/soi-remove to let them easily do so,” Apple’s Adam Howorth told the BBC. “Any customer that needs additional help should contact AppleCare.”
“It’s like everyone’s vomiting whatever their first impression is,” said U2 bass player Adam Clayton, speaking to Time about the backlash.
The members of U2 are long-time advocates of artists being compensated for their music. Despite giving Songs of Innocence away for free until 13 October, the band has been paid by Apple for the rights to the album.
U2 image via Shutterstock
