This morning, Apple just launched iTunes Plus, their new service that allows consumers to buy unprotected music tracks from the iTunes Store.

The upgraded tracks cost $1.29 each, and offer better sound quality as well as unrestricted use on any device that supports the AAC format. Currently EMI is the only major label to offer unprotected tracks through the iTunes Store, but more labels are expected to follow later on in the year.

The original 99-cent, DRM-equipped tracks are still available.

Steve Jobs has an announcement scheduled for later today at the All Things Digital conference, so it's possible we'll hear more about this. Stay tuned.

Apple Launches iTunes Plus [Apple]