From the moment digital downloads of music became (legally) available, the writing has been on the wall. Physical media, in this case music CDs, vinyl and cassettes, is facing extinction. According tho the RIAA, digital downloads of music surpassed physical media in terms of units shipped in 2007.

However, in terms of dollar value digital still lags behind. This may be due to the discounted rate of digital. Paying $9.99 on iTunes for an album verses $14.99 at Best Buy for a CD would certainly indicate a price disparity. It is also easier to download a song from a computer than trek to a retail store.

Now a major landmark has been reached. Atlantic recently reached a milestone that no other major record label has hit. More than half of its music sales in the United States are now from digital downloads.

The music industry is seeing, and to some degree accepting reality. Let’s hope the movie industry follows suit – and fast. Blu-ray player and media sales continue to fall short. Price may be the major factor for consumers, but convenience also plays a part. Hmm, this situation sounds very familiar…