Apple is expanding its iTunes LP and Extras (read: silly gimmick no one really cares about) feature to indie artists, labels and developers. The “new” technology (read: basically an e-card included with your digital album for a few extra bucks) was previously only available to major labels through partnerships.

An automated electronic submission method will be added in the first quarter of next year. Until then, it’s a bit of a hassle. An existing iTunes contract is required, and all submissions will be reviewed by the iTunes team “for appropriateness of content and for technical quality”.

Templates and a developers guide for both formats is available here.

What do you think? Do the LP/Extras formats interest you as a consumer? Would you pay more? Artists, do you think this adds value to your product? Will you consider using it in a future release?