The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) requested that Apple license its FairPlay digital rights management technology so that the iTunes Music Store (iTMS) will be compatible with more than just the iPod. Although the BPI feels that Apple has contributed greatly to the growth and development of the digital music industry, it is also concerned about the dominance of the iTMS, PC Pro reports.

Peter Jamieson, BPI chairman, commented "It's not particularly healthy for any one company to have such a dominant share."

During an inquiry into new media and the creative industries conducted by the House of Commons Select Committee for Culture, Media & Sport, Mr. Jamieson said that Apple should be prepared to license its FairPlay technology so that other companies can make music players that are compatible with the iTMS service.

Currently, Apple does not allow other companies to use FairPlay, the DRM technology it uses to protect music purchased at the iTMS from being copied without a authorization. Since Apple's iPod is the only player that is FairPlay compatible, every other portable music player manufacturer is blocked from creating players that are directly compatible with songs purchased from Apple's online service.

Mr. Jamieson asserted the BPI position during the inquiry by stating "We would advocate that Apple opts for interoperability."