Microsoft to Launch MSN Music Service in 2004

securitas writes "SmartMoney.com reports that a Microsoft spokeswoman confirmed plans to launch an online music download service in 2004 via the MSN Web site. The story was first reported in the Wall Street Journal (paid subscription required). Microsoft may undercut the per-song prices of competitors Apple iTunes and Roxio Napster. A reliable source is cited as saying that Microsoft has been in talks with major music companies and a post for a senior-level marketing position for the service was added to Microsoft's recruiting site last week. Observers expect that the company will use Windows or the bundled Windows Media Player to gain a competitive advantage over other services that require a software download to use them. Interestingly, in this May 2003 analysis piece about Apple's iTunes Microsoft denied any plans to launch a music download service. More at CNet."

Comments

Let me guess...

[TrentC]

...the following will be true about Microsoft's music service:

• Will require Windows Media Player on Windows to function; files will be DRM'ed out the ass (sidebar: expect WMP for the Mac to join IE in the near future)
• Will be playable on only one PC (although you can authorize users who have a Passport account), no ability to burn to CD, but may be downloaded to Microsoft's new portable music player, just like Apple's iTunes (although not as useful)
• Will start making promotional deals with everyone under the sun to give away free downloads, just like Apple did with Pepsi
• Will make deals with record labels to release exclusive "MSN Music only" content, like download-only albums and exclusive tracks, just like Apple's iTunes (see a pattern developing here?)

In short, they'll rip off every idea Apple had with the iPod, iTunes, and ITMS but make it less consumer-friendly; no rescuing any of the songs you've purchased if you have to migrate to another PC or reformat your hard drive (at least not for free).

Jay (=