Late last week word broke across the web that the LG VX8100 coulnd't play MP3 files after receiving the software update to use V Cast Music Downloads. Verizon Wireless commented on the issue during a call with MobileTracker on Monday afternoon.
A spokesperson confirmed that after a software update to launch V Cast Music Downloads, the LG Vx8100 will no longer be able to play native MP3 files. However, it was also confirmed that customers that want their phones updated will be sufficiently warned to that effect. Windows Media Player 10 converts MP3 files to WMA files before transferring them to the phone, but that leaves out users of other operating systems who cannot use the application.
The reason for disabling the native MP3 player was cited as a user experience issue--having two players would be confusing for the user. When asked if it was technically possible to integrate both features (WMA and MP3) into one player, Verizon Wireless said that it was. It's possible another update in the future will make this happen, but we didn't get a definitive answer other than it was technically feasible.
According to Verizon Wireless, Microsoft had no bearing on the decision.