Apple to unveil tablet-like digital music device

THE major music labels are planning a new digital album format that will debut with a tablet-like personal computer from Apple in September, sources close to the plans have revealed.

The labels are attempting to revive the multi-track album format with new

software that packages songs, traditional album liner notes, music videos, and other interactive extras as part of a premium-priced package.

The music industry first proposed the idea of an enhanced album format to Apple in 2007, according to two people who said the labels have been separately working on a project code-named CMX.

The labels, including EMI, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal and Warner had planned to roll out the new album format to all digital retailers this November. But Apple decided to design its own version of an interactive album, which is expected to be launched with its new unnamed tablet-like device later this year, the sources said.

The Apple album project has been code-named Cocktail, and the format is expected to work with other Apple devices like the iPhone and iPod.

Industry sources said chief executive Steve Jobs would likely unveil the new device at an Apple event in September.

Apple declined to comment, saying the company does not respond to rumours and speculation.

The partnership between Apple and the music labels is tinged with irony as it was the technology company that effectively marked the end of the multitrack album format in 2003, when it opened up its iTunes Music Store.

The new interactive format, which could feature extras, like interviews with the artist while making the album, would be sold at a higher price than digital albums now.

Insiders said there is early evidence from current bundling experiments than fans are prepared to spend more for high quality content.

The tablet is expected to allow users to surf the internet, and may also serve as an electronic book reader.