Apple iTunes is now the third largest music retailer in USA

Apple continues to shine with their iTunes digital media store. As per latest market reports, Apple iTunes is now the third largest music store in the US market.

Market research firm NPD has placed iTunes on the third spot on their list of the largest music retailers in the country.

The report claimed that Apple iTunes captured a 9.8 percent share of total music sales. They are now ahead of retailing giants including Amazon, Target, Borders, Circuit City, Virgin Megastores and others.

The two companies currently leading iTunes in the list includes Wal-Mart and Best Buy.

The report further said that digital purchases now accounts for nearly 13.8 percent of total sales. NPD said that Apple iTunes gained from the recent holiday season with improved sales of Apple iPods.

Apple iTunes also recently become the first major retailer to offer DRM free music. They are working with music company EMI to offer their catalog of music without any form of DRM technology.