Toronto (Top40 Charts/ HMV Canada) HMV has confirmed that the iOS version of its new digital music app, which was released on October 17 th 2013, has been temporarily removed from the UK iOS App Store by Apple in spite of the Cupertino, California -based tech company previously giving HMV's app its approval.
HMV stressed that Apple's removal of the app only prevents further iPhone users from downloading it. Users who have already downloaded the app will continue to be able to use it and will not notice any changes to the experience.
HMV's developers are working around the clock to deliver an updated version of the iOS app for Apple's approval which will retain the innovative Image Search and Sound Search functionality to discover music and listen to 30 second previews. The updated app will also provide access to users' "MyHMV" locker to manage all HMV downloads made via the company's HTML5 store - m.hmvdigital.com - and the new hmv.com which is set to launch this Thursday.
Paul McGowan , Chairman of HMV and CEO of Hilco Capital , commented: "It is disappointing that Apple has chosen to suspend an app that has proven to be very successful in only a few short days despite Apple having already approved the exact same version on 15th September. We are unable to explain the change in Apple's position as we have been given no explanation by them as to any difference they view between the approved version and the one suspended this evening. The Android and HTML versions of the app are spectacular and are proving a big hit with UK consumers with downloads growing constantly over the last few days."
Since its launch last Thursday (17 October), HMV's digital music store has proven popular with British customers with the app downloading over 10,000 times with 4 star and 4.5 star reviews in the iOS and Google Play app stores respectively.
"HMV has always strived to offer music fans alternative ways to consume the entertainment they love"said Nick Williams , president of hmv Canada . "This app adds another exciting dimension to our customers shopping experience and we are looking forward to its release in Canada "
hmv Canada anticipates distribution of the app for it's Canadian clientele in late November.
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