Legal downloads will take off in 2004

“The European music download scene will turn around in 2004. Many consumers who have routinely downloaded for free will become resigned to paying for legitimate services. Portals will benefit first; Apple’s iTunes and Napster will win in the long run. “Attempts to stop illicit downloading in Europe have failed so far,” said Forrester Senior Analyst Rebecca Jennings. “But commercial sites just need to be patient as the market gradually changes. In 2004, a combination of legal action by the music industry and expansion of legitimate services will cause a watershed in the download market.”“