Apple vs. Europe

European collection agencies are no less determined to protect their musicians than the American counterparts. But in Europe, those agencies compete, in a sense, with national governments quick to impose taxes on music playback devices. Should the European music consumer pay twice for music — once when buying a device (like an iPod), and again when buying the music (like from iTunes Music Store)? Er, no. So, while competing forces battle it out, Apple has delayed introduction of the iTunes Music Store in Europe. Oh, and Apple is refusing to dish out the 24-dollar levy per iPod it has sold in France, too.