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Apple to debut iTunes LP alongside launch of iTunes 9

iTunes LP, likely the official name of Apple's "Cocktail" project designed to spur sales of full albums, is expected to be officially unveiled at today's media event along with iTunes 9.

A new listing on iTunes for a deluxe edition of Bob Dylan's "Highway 61 Revisited," as discovered by AppleInsider reader Cameron Phillips, has revealed both new products. The description states that the album's release date is Sept. 15, 2009, and that the album-enriching iTunes LP will include bonus content in the form of additional recordings, photos and videos. It is listed for $16.99.

"Get this watershed album with iTunes LP (only for use on a Mac or PC with iTunes 9 or later) for 13 bonus recordings taken from the original sessions, live videos recorded at the Newport Folk Festival, photos, and more," the iTunes page reads.

Originally revealed under the codename "Cocktail," the new product is designed to incentivize purchases of full-length albums rather than individual singles. The effort is purportedly a multi-party collaboration between Apple as well as EMI, Sony, Warner and Universal. Reports have alleged it will go well beyond the PDF liner notes often included today.

With Apple's keynote media event just moments away, it is likely that the iTunes LP format, along with iTunes 9, will be unveiled. Previous rumors have suggested that iTunes 9 will include social media integration and Blu-ray support.

In July, Apple unveiled the D45 section of the iTunes Music Store. Like old 45 records, the format includes a popular single accompanied by a B-side. Prices on D45s range from $1.49 to $1.99.