Custom iTunes Prepaid Cards handed out like tic-tacs at SXSW

 Sexohol put their album on an iPod shuffle - which is brilliant and likely to be mimicked often, but the latest craze is custom prepaid iTunes gift cards, which made an appearance at this year’s South By Southwest Festival in Austin (shout out to my Austin pals!).

Playlist Magazine (not to be confused with the other Playlist) reports that 200 bands at SXSW are distributing their own numbered, limited edition iTunes cards at shows, listening parties and press events. These hot little items are sure to end up on eBay, if they haven’t already. The cards are linked to specific songs, albums or playlists. Think of it like a gift card with built-in DRM!

I think this is a top-notch marketing tool, for both Apple and the bands. If only more Indies were available in the iTMS. Perhaps this is a sign of change in that regard?