In Finding Harmony in the World of Online Music, I wrote about RealNetworks’ new Harmony Technology. (Incidentally, the final version is now shipping, and you can grab it at Real’s Web site.) I mentioned that Apple Computer has taken umbrage with Harmony because Real is opening Apple’s closed iPod system to music from non-Apple stores. My take on this battle is that Real never should have had to force Apple’s hand and go its own way. Instead, Apple decided that Apple—and only Apple—could supply purchased music for enjoyment on the iPod. And Apple has pledged to fight Real and make its music incompatible through future iPod updates.

Two weeks later, I remain convinced that giving consumers a choice—in this case, a choice of online music stores—is ultimately the way to go. Choice has driven our free market society since the beginning. The concept is simple enough. However, some reader feedback has me questioning my views. Not that I’m backing down from my choice mantra. But it’s become somewhat obvious to me (you know, after others pointed it out) that maybe we’re missing the real point of this fight. Maybe Apple and Real aren’t really fighting about music formats at all.