“MP3.com on Tuesday said it would make its extensive online
music database and streaming technology available for free to
developers, letting rivals tap into its hard-won music locker
service….”
“Many online music companies have expressed frustration with the
progress of the record industry-backed Secure Digital Music
Initiative (SDMI), which some blame for stymieing new online music
technologies and hammering Net music start-ups with layoffs and
shutdowns….”
“Web developers who take advantage of the offer could create
their own online music locker services without paying any licensing
fees, said MP3.com’s Oien. In addition, consumer electronics
companies could create devices, such as portable MP3 players, that
tap into MP3.com’s online database.”