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The controversial HMV music download app is back on iOS although its key bit of functionality has been cut.
The app hit the headlines last week when it was revealed that users could use it to purchase and download music and have it automatically added to their iTunes library – functionality that Apple has historically frowned upon.
And indeed, no sooner had the information got out there than Apple was telling HMV bosses to pull the app. When it transpired they weren’t willing to play ball, Apple pulled it anyway.
Now the app is back, sans the direct download functionality it had before.
Users can quickly and easily purchase downloads on iOS devices – or any other smartphone – by accessing HMV’s new mobile download store at m.hmvdigital.com in their phone’s web browser,” the retailer says. The mobile download store is also integrated with the new hmv.com website which launched last week.
Tracks purchased in the mobile download store can be played immediately in the browser and are automatically added to the ‘myhmv’ library in the iOS app. A download manager for PC and Mac allows purchased tracks to be added to the user’s desktop or laptop music library.”
Paul McGowan, the CEO of HMV owners Hilco Capital, added: "Whilst it is disappointing that direct purchases cannot be made in the App, Apple device users have a very simple and straightforward process through Safari to continue to purchase through HMV and to then listen to their tracks on their Apple device.
This is a strong compromise position for HMV and we look forward to Apple device owners once again buying and enjoying their digital music through HMV."
