Even though Apple is a bit late with its iTunes offering in Latin America, the company is expected to receive a strong boost after launching the service in Mexico on Aug. 4.
The recent iTunes launch in Mexico marks Apple's first wave of efforts in Latin America, as the company has numerous hurdles to overcome if it wants to succeed. Mexico and other Latin American nations rely more on cash than credit, offering an interesting challenge for Apple, which must sell gift cards to consumers.
The majority of music tracks will sell for 12 pesos (91 cents), with albums priced at 120 pesos ($9) each, and music videos will cost 24 pesos ($1.83) each, it is expected. The popularity of the Apple iPod also is growing in Mexico, offering Apple another edge up in the digital market south of the border.
Tech companies, facing economic uncertainty in the western world, continue to shot faith in emerging markets, offering a growing number of products and services in Latin America, Africa, and parts of Asia. Mobile phone manufacturers and netbook companies have seen good success, and Apple hopes to begin a difficult journey of convincing Latin American music listeners to purchase music legally.
For example, Apple expects to have 15% of the smartphone market in Mexico by the end of 2009, with the company gaining higher market control because many Mexican consumers try to follow American tech and shopping trends. The company continues to roll out the iPhone 3G in other regions, and sales results should clearly outline how it will attempt to promote iTunes throughout Latin America.
How do you think Apple should promote iTunes in Mexico and throughout the rest of the region?
