Apple's new tool removes 'free' U2 album from devices
There were mixed reactions from iTunes users around the world after a freebie was forced down their throats.
Some gladly took the gift, while others had issues that centred around privacy concerns after U2's latest album, Songs of Innocence, "magically" appeared on their Apple devices.
The 11-track album couldn't be deleted.
In response, the tech giant released a new tool on Monday (Sept 15) which Forbes reported was a removal tool.
The release of the album, which Apple CEO Tim Cook labelled "the largest album release of all time", was automatically downloaded to the devices of 500 million iTunes customers in 119 countries, BBC reported.
The unveiling of U2's 13th studio album coincided with Apple's iPhone 6 and Watch launch event last week.
Apple users took to Twitter to vent their frustration:
Apple reportedly gave U2 a large blanket royalty fee and provided a marketing budget worth of about US$100 million (S$126.1 million) to give the album away to all iTunes users, Forbes added.
To say this "gift" was universally not-so-well-received would be a major understatement.
Sources: Forbes and BBC
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now
