If you are having trouble viewing our video player, check out MediaBytes on YouTube.
ITUNES has surpassed Wal-Mart to become the top music retailer in the United States, according to NPD Group’s MusicWatch survey. The store now sells more music than any other retailer in any format. Since its launch in 2003, iTunes has sold 4 billion songs and now claims to have over 50 million customers.
COMCAST and STARCOM MEDIAVEST conducted a 16-month study that found viewers are 33% less likely to switch channels during targeted commercials. The study showed targeted ads to 8,000 Comcast homes, using commercials from GM, Discover, Kraft, Miller and more. It focused on known attributes, such as showing ads for pet products to known pet owners. This study will enter phase 2 in the 100,000-home trial Comcast plans to launch in Baltimore later this year.
QUALCOMM revealed that it will double the coverage of its mobile TV service on both coasts as a result of spectrum won during the 700 MHz spectrum auction. MediaFlo will now occupy 12 megahertz of bandwidth on the East and West coasts, while it remains at 6 megahertz in the rest of the country.
ADOBE entered a trial phase of offering ad-supported subscriptions to shows from CBS including “Big Brother” and “CSI” through the Adobe Media Player.
MICROSOFT unveiled a new lineup of online shows that will be distributed via Xbox, MSN and other outlets. Shows include “In Need of Repair,” a home improvement show and “The Men’s Room,” a show about men’s fashion. Microsoft called the shows “working concepts” that could be adjusted to advertiser needs. MSNBC.com will also offer a news show featuring Tom Brokaw and “Zeitgeist,” a show about topics in the headlines.
MYSPACE officially announced MySpace Music, the new joint venture with Universal Music, Warner Music and Sony BMG. The site aims to be a one-stop-shop for all things music — from digital downloads to concert tickets and t-shirts. As reported earlier, the site will offer ad-supported streaming of music and paid downloads. The site is also considering a music subscription service that will allow users to download unlimited music to computers and digital audio players for a monthly fee. The launch is expected later this year.