New York - Ringback tones -- the ringtones that can be programmed to play when a caller dials your mobile number -- will lead mobile music growth and surpass $210 million in U.S. retail sales this year, up 50% from 2007, according to a projection from performing rights organization BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.).

Overall though, BMI predicted that the U.S. ringtone market will continue to decline in 2008, generating $510 million in U.S. retail sales this year, down 7% from 2007's $500 million.

BMI estimated ringtone market at $600 million in 2006; $500 million in 2005; $245 million in 2004; and $68 million in 2003.

"The market for ringbacktones has grown stronger than we originally forecasted last year," said Richard Conlon, VP of new media and strategic development at BMI.

"As we forecasted last year, the ringtone market continues to decline as the novelty phase wears off and lower-priced substitutional products come to market."

Related Links:
http://snipurl.com/22rso

http://www.bmi.com