Apple and DRM Free Music

Don't worry, it's not an announcement just the gist of an article over at engadget. They detail a letter from Steve Jobs in which he explains his preference for the abolition of DRM for media, simply because "DRMs haven't worked, and may never work, to halt music piracy." The abolition of DRM will serve consumers and also level the marketplace, in his own words:

Why would the big four music companies [ever] agree to let Apple and others distribute their music without using DRM systems to protect it? The simplest answer is because DRMs haven't worked, and may never work, to halt music piracy. ... Much of the concern over DRM systems has arisen in European countries. Perhaps those unhappy with the current situation should redirect their energies towards persuading the music companies to sell their music DRM-free. ... Convincing them to license their music to Apple and others DRM-free will create a truly interoperable music marketplace. Apple will embrace this wholeheartedly."

The issue is well stated but the writer over at engadget feels that both apple and Microsoft need to spearhead an initiative to make this a reality. I agree...