(Click here for larger image of Orb PDA music menu)When Orb
launched the service in early February, subscription fees were priced at around $10 per month or $80 per year. Orb says it expects to replace the subscription revenue stream by "aggressively forming" strategic partnerships with content providers and consumer electronic companies. These partnerships will provide Orb with a sustained commerce stream through co-marketing relationships and transactions for music, video, audio and other services, according to the company.
"Digital environment technology is a competitive field, and one that is ripe for growth," said Tim Bajarin, Principal Analyst, Creative Strategies. "That said, vendors need to focus not only on the viability and innovation of their technology, but on fostering a consumer-friendly business model, as well. Companies that can master both worlds stand the greatest chance for early customer growth and long-term success."
The Orb software for Windows XP Media Center Edition and Windows XP Pro is available for download
here. Once the software is installed, media files on the broadband-connected PC can be accessed from any Internet-connected device by means of a Web browser and either Real Player or Windows Media Player.
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