U2 performed at Apple’s iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus and Apple Watch launch event today, but there was another announcement the band was saving for the end of its set. Starting right now, the band’s latest album is available for free on iTunes.
The record, called Songs of Innocence, is exclusive to Apple’s music store in 119 countries until October 13. After which point, it will presumably be available in a physical format and in other digital marketplaces. Apple says the Irish rock band’s new album will also be available through iTunes Radio and its on-demand music streaming service, Beats Music, from September 10.
“At Apple, music has always been a big part of who we are and what we do,” a promotional page on Apple’s site reads. “This is the biggest album release in music history and one more way we’re moving music forward.”
Apple and U2 have a long-standing relationship. The pair teamed up for the ‘iPod U2 Special Edition‘ back in 2004 and followed up with a second version based on the fifth generation 30GB iPod in 2006. Apple has also supported (RED), a charitable initiative founded by U2 frontman Bono, with a number of appropriately colored products and auctions.
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