Acquired Acquired Episode 38: SoundJam (iTunes)
May 31, 2017
This podcast explores the birth of the digital music revolution with Apple's acquisition of SoundJam MP, which became iTunes. They discuss the challenges of developing MP3 codec, the impact of iTunes on Mac users, and the shift to subscription-based models. They also discuss homogenization and the future of individual expression, competing business interests between MLB and BAMtech, and share their eye-opening experience of visiting Israel.
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SoundJam's Origins
- Jeff Robin and Bill Kincaid, former Apple engineers, developed SoundJam.
- It became a popular MP3 player for Mac users during the rise of digital music.
SoundJam in a Box
- Eric, an Acquired listener, bought SoundJam in a box.
- He highlighted its brushed metal interface and its influence on Apple's design.
Kincaid's MP3 Journey
- Bill Kincaid learned about MP3s and the Rio player on NPR.
- He realized Rio didn't work on Macs and took on the challenge of making it compatible.