The decision was announced in April, with a drop-dead date for the servers of August 31st, 2008. As you may know, the original store was closed when Zune Marketplace opened.
Well, Microsoft's decided that wasn't such a hot idea, after tons of criticism. In an email, Microsoft said:
"After careful consideration, Microsoft has decided to continue to support the authorization of new computers and devices, and delivery of new license keys for MSN Music customers through at least the end of 2011. This means you will continue to be able to listen to your purchased music and transfer your music to new PCs and devices beyond the previously announced August 31, 2008 date."
They probably started to wonder, since it's hard enough to sell music for the Zune as it is, what people would think about Zune Marketplace if they took this step. So, while this is a nice PR move, it's still not forever. I'm thinking they assume people will forget all about this by 2011, or perhaps Microsoft will remove the DRM at that time, once and for all.
Mark 2011 in your calendar as the next time we discuss this.
Source: Reported By Tech Ex http://technologyexpert.blogspot.com/
