said by ifarrell 
:said by liquidnw :People bitch an moan about Microsoft Monopoly but apple get a complete pass. It unconstitutional to force Apple to open there system but its ok to force MS to open there operating system to competitors. Before people call me a M.S. apologist I'm all for MS being less monopolistic but the double standard is amazing. You think if MS coming ipod rival some how takes 80 market share there would be a rush to fine and open up there music player.
Apple did not use it's market share to manipulate makers of Audio Players to use it's system nor did it force PC makers to use it's software.
Apple makes a easy to use product that at least 75% of consumers want right now, plain and simple.
Ok, number one apple is a pc maker and they force bundle itunes with there computers/OS. Lets not act like the ipod cures cancer. The truth is the ipod is more of a fashion statement than anything. There are players out there that in many peoples opinions are better and are just as easy to use. Apple just happened to be first out the gate and locked in so many people. The problem is joe six pack or a kid that just wants to be "cool" doesn't realize that there locked in for life unless they want to repurchase everything. I will say it again the double standard is amazing. How ever you want to spin it they should be forced to open itunes to other players. If as you say the ipod is so great then they have nothing to worry about right? Everyone will still buy and use a ipod. 
·