Amazon has just launched AutoRip, a service that offers free MP3 downloads to those who purchase physical CDs via Amazon.com. These MP3 files will automatically be placed into the purchaser’s Amazon Cloud Drive account after purchase. iPhone users can then download these files and transfer them via iTunes or play them on the Amazon Cloud Drive app, which is available for free via the App Store. All AutoRip tracks will be distributed in the form of 256 kbps and will not count towards your cloud storage limit.
The best part about this service is the fact that it allows users who have previously purchased CDs via Amazon to download digital copies. The company has stated that it will give users free downloads of MP3s for all CD purchases dating all the way back to 1998, when Amazon first opened its music store.
As a music collector, I’m a huge fan of this service. While I like having the physical copy of a CD, sometimes it’s more convenient to listen to it digitally. Because of AutoRip, when I purchase a CD via Amazon, I won’t have to fire up my external SuperDrive in order to transfer the music to my iPhone.
Image Credit: Secret Pilgrim
