GarageBand now free on iOS 7

It appears that Apple’s popular GarageBand app will become free on iOS 7, according to information accidentally posted online by the company yesterday.

Redesigned logos for the popular music production program, as well as those for iPhoto, iMovie, Pages, Numbers, and Keynote were posted, along with a blurb that read: “GarageBand is free on the App Store for all iOS 7 compatible devices; additional GarageBand instruments and sounds are available with an in-app purchase. iPhoto, iMovie, Pages, Numbers, and Keynote are free on the App Store for qualifying iOS 7 compatible devices activated on or after September 1, 2013.”

Apple host a media event today (PST) during which they will, no doubt, announce these and further changes (such as the new iPad).

According to Digital Music News, GarageBand is currently the 33rd most popular paid iPad app. Making the program available for free appears to be a move to squash competition from Reason, ProTools and other similar entry-level music production software. It should also strike fear into manufacturers of stand-alone portable production devices; an iPad retails for marginally less than most decent portable studios.