Apple is clearly aware of the trend toward streaming music services, and is slowly switching its iPod range from being de facto players for owner’s own music libraries to being wireless connected devices capable of accessing such streams – a la iPod touch.

With the next big moment on Apple watcher’s radar being the customary autumn refresh of the iPod line-up, it’s no great surprise that giant US retailer Amazon is currently selling existing models at up to a 13 per cent discount, including 8 per cent off the cost of the iPod touch 32 GB, which now costs $369 (a $30.99 discount).

Discussion earlier this year focused on the notion Apple may soon offer digital lockers for iTunes user’s existing content – we now suspect a music streaming service from Apple may also be on the radar.

It’s a theory worthy of an extended beard-stroke. If Microsoft’s upcoming streaming service is Spotify’s headache, an Apple offensive may be its tumour. A good streaming service coupled with the best, most popular music devices would be something to be reckoned with. And Apple’s iTunes is considered the darling of the music industry. Labels trust Apple to bring in profits — probably more so, currently, than Daniel Ek and Spotify.

One to watch.