They actually store all purchases if you provide a phone number and name. While for a CD purchase it seems silly, you try explaining to a non-tech savvy mom in a state where receipts will fade to dust in storage that you can't process her $3k return (or warranty) because you don't have proof that the purchase was made. This is especially useful when you buy a car stereo and your car gets broken into and the insurance company requires documentation and serial numbers of all equipment. If I remember right you can search the db for phone number with last name (common), CC number (next highest nowadays), or full address with name. It would return the price, tax, purchase date, warranty expiration, serial number, any activation set, the type of payment used, etc etc. Entries remain in the system indefinitely, well, not for much longer now... It helped in numerous occasions, people are much more likely to remember their phone number (especially older folks) than where/if they still have/ the receipt.

Personally I would prefer to see Apple change its focus to something more open-minded whilst keeping the income gain in sight. Say, licensing a developement environment that has the slick (note: taste) ui and intuitive-ness as Apple is renown for and make profit that way. If they wanted to take it a step further they could open a small domain that allows the more useful and popular programs available for download (with say an Apple Certified Certificate but not legally responsible notice) with step-by-step (or auto) installations to further enhance "the Apple experience." This way they can earn money through licensing, earn a greater respect for "opening" the iPhone, and add an easy place for non-programmers to add utility to their expensive new gadget.