How have recent technologies (iPod, iPhone) affected the music recording and performance industry in ways other than file sharing?

The textbook highlights the digital music era as a financial loss for the music industry.  Piracy and recordable CDs created losses in excess of billions of dollars for the music industry.  It was Apple who burst on the scene in 2003 with the iPod and iTunes that saved the day.  They changed the industry by offering downloadable songs at only .99!  This was unprecedented.  Prior to this offer, entire albums would have to be purchased upwards of $13.00.  Sometimes singles would be released of a hit song, but that would still cost $4.00.  This made music affordable again.  The book states that iTunes topped 4 billion in sales.  Instead of illegally downloading, users could pay a small fee for each song.

The iPod and iPhone also gave users the ability to carry their entire music collection in the palm of their hand.  Previously music had to be carried around in CD books or on cassettes.  This change made it easier for listeners to enjoy their favorite music anywhere, anytime, without having to carry around large bags of CDs.  These mp3 players are also easier to use than CDs.  Instead of taking out a CD to put in another the user just simply scrolls a menu.

The music recording industry has and will continue to benefit from the iPod and iPhone.  It has renewed industry in legally obtaining music through sources that are convenient and offer benefits not seen before.