TUAW threw out the idea that XM may be setting up a subsription service to download songs to your “XM Digital Music Player” (aka the device formally known as the SkyPod) based on a survey they received. Orbitcast reported on a similar survey a little while back, but the subscription model wasn’t mentioned at the time - this new survey seems to stray away from one-offs and instead focus on a Napster-To-Go style business model.
Here’s my take on the whole thing:
- A Subscription service would only work if the price was reasonable. I’m already paying for Satellite Radio, I don’t want to pay much more for a song I just heard. Charge me a reasonable price (TUAW suggests $5.99/month - I’m leaning more towards $2.99/month).
- Goes perfectly with the Ultimate Playlist branding strategy. XM would be the natural evolution from the iPod.
- Sets the groundwork for my Satellite Podcasting wish. Adam Curry playing a ‘best of’ Podcast Channel loses the essence of podcasting which is: micro-customization. For my custom listening experience, I don’t really care what Adam Curry feels is cool, I want to listen to my own taste of podcast. This subscription service would provide an interface to save the podcasts I want. Custom radio is the future.
- Give me the ability to keep the songs even after canceling my XM subscription. Chances are, I won’t ever cancel because it gives me simple access to a massive library of songs, but just make me feel comfortable by not adding that restriction. It’s a deal breaker.
- And the Digital Music Recorder? This is the kicker. Needs to have a good capacity, portability, and an interface that makes me drool. The accompaning interface must be extremely intuitive because you’re managing both your own songs and XM’s songs.
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