Digital music sales almost tripled around the world last year, reaching $1.1 billion in value, but that growth could not prevent a 3 percent drop in overall global sales to $21 billion, according to record industry figures.
Digital sales were reported officially for the first time in the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry's (IFPI) annual world sales figures, released Friday, which showed an almost even split between online and mobile phone customers along distinct regional lines.
Mobile device-related sales led the way in Japan and certain territories in continental Europe, while the U.S., U.K. and Germany leaned toward online home purchasing, the IFPI report said.
Digital sales were reported officially for the first time in the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry's (IFPI) annual world sales figures, released Friday, which showed an almost even split between online and mobile phone customers along distinct regional lines.
Mobile device-related sales led the way in Japan and certain territories in continental Europe, while the U.S., U.K. and Germany leaned toward online home purchasing, the IFPI report said.