Apple denies that Universal Music is giving them a hard time

Apple denies that music companies are giving it a hard time

Apple Inc. has said that the rumors related to Universal Music not interested in renewing their licensing deal for iTunes are not true.

Apple spokesman Tom Neumayr said in a statement: “We are still negotiating with Universal. Their music is still on iTunes and their not re-signing is just not true.”

Market sources had claimed that Universal was not interested in signing a long term contract with Apple and was rather continuing on a monthly deal.

This means Universal would have been free to sign exclusive deals with rival digital media stores for new launches and other promotions.

One of the major issues between Apple and the music companies have been the fixed pricing of the songs on the Apple iTunes.

Music companies want Apple to allow variable pricing on iTunes so that they can charge more money for newer and exclusive songs.

Apple CEO Steve Jobs has publicly stated that he does not favor such a formula.