Apple has launched the South African version of the iTunes Store, including a range of local albums, songs and music videos as well as access to the popular iTunes Match service. SA users can choose from more than 20 million local and international songs and pay for them in rands.
South African artists such as Desmond and the Tutus, Zahara, Springbok Nude Girls, 340ml, Simphiwe Dana, Brenda Fassie, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Mango Groove are available.
Tracks cost R6.99 each, with album prices varying.
South African users can’t buy movies, series or games from the iTunes Store, and it is unclear when or even if this functionality will come to the SA version of the store.
Implications for CD shops
Stores in the UK have felt the impact of online music stores like iTunes, and those in SA are expected to follow suit.
Media analyst, Arthur Goldstuck of World Wide Worx, agrees. He believes that the arrival in SA of online media platforms, like Apple’s iTunes, spells the end for brick and mortar music retailers like Musica and Look & Listen.