MP3 TURNS PRO

Thomson Multimedia and the Fraunhofer Institute, developers of MP3, are calling the new, near-CD quality format MP3PRO. (Why do netcos insist on spelling in all caps or all lower-case? Ick.) The companies are providing a version of the format for consumers, but are ultimately hoping software and hardware developers upgrade as well. ‘Cause that, my friends, is how they make their money.

The new files are backwards-compatible, but because the new format uses two separate data streams, only one of which old players can detect, they may actually sound worse. MP3PRO players will be able to play the older MP3 files with no problem. The company claims that the new format compresses songs into half the size of MP3s, by putting them in the evil Dr. Shrinker’s machine. Do not try this at home.

Despite reluctance from record labels to use the format, MP3s are a hit with the kids. Said Thomson Multimedia VP New Business of the Patent and Licensing unit Henri Linde: "Today there are more than 12 million portable MP3 players, 250 million personal computers playing MP3 files and practically every song in the world has been encoded as an MP3 file. These numbers underscore the tremendous appeal MP3 has within the global consumer marketplace—and the need for continued compatibility as we continue to advance the format. But why can't I find a copy of the new Stone Temple Pilots on Napster. What’s up with that?"