Apple is negotiating with record labels over a new arrangement that would allow iTunes users easier access to purchased music across multiple devices, according to Bloomberg.
Calling the move “a step closer to universal access to content centrally stored on the Internet” and citing three people with knowledge of the plans, the report states that under the new agreement, iTunes customers would have a permanent backup of their purchased music should the originals become damaged or lost, and would be able to download multiple times across every device that was linked to their iTunes accounts.
Involved in the talks are all of the “big four” labels—Universal, Sony, Warner Bros., and EMI—and the report notes that an agreement could be announced by midyear.
