Amazon’s new mp3 Cloud Player, no replacement for other music apps
Finally, Amazon launches the mp3 Cloud Player. I had wondered when this might happen. With the launch of their mp3 store, it was surprising that they did not include an easier way to purchase and save files for easy access at any time. After purchasing some mp3′s on Amazon, I noticed that .amz files not be opened at a convenient time once they had been purchased. This was certainly a great frustration from a usability standpoint. It meant having to email customer service and waiting for an answer.
So clearly, the Amazon player’s strength is that it is not limited to any number of devices, and they can be accessed from your home desktop, in your office or on the road. It is meant to be easy to buy and easy to access, but beyond that right now I do not see many other benefits. Analysts say it is a win for Android as well, and a subtle blow to Apple’s bottom line via those who don’t own an iPhone. But, for the growing number who own iPhones or iPods, it is unlikely the majority will attempt to Mac hack their way to working in the Amazon Cloud based app as a replacement for iTunes.
Other competitors could include mSpot (mobile playback) or Pandora. Except Pandora is still a complementary offering that competes for consumer attention. It is the lazy man’s music that requires no curating or careful thought in what you listen to. Purchasing mp3′s via Amazon Cloud requires a more active role, so Amazon will have to add more features than an easy way to buy and save files on the cloud.
As for me, it’s likely I’ll continue to use all three. What about you? Do you see yourself replacing your other mp3 players with Amazon Cloud?
