MICROSOFT has unveiled its music streaming service Zune Music in yet a different attempt to upset the Apple cart.
Described as an all-you-can-eat music service, Zune offers unlimited streaming access to 13 million tracks, for a subscription fee of just $11.99 per month or $119.90 per year, The Advertiser reported.
The service will also offer music video streaming on Windows-PC and Xbox LIVE later this year, based on the business.

In addition to the Zune Music Pass, Microsoft has launched the Zune Marketplace, which makes it possible for users to purchase and download individual songs or albums which will be accessed across their Windows Telephone and PC, with out the need for a Zune Pass subscription.

By tackling both the streaming and the digital download industry, Microsoft not just provides a challenge to Apple, but jumps on board with the plethora of other organizations which have launched similar services this year.

The new Microsoft service will likely be in direct competition with Sony Music Unlimited, Guvera, Samsung Music Hub along with the soon to be launched JB-HiFi on the internet service JB NOW.

Microsoft director consumer channels group, David McLean, mentioned that with Australians having a powerful passion for music, delivering the choice of streaming and downloading will probably be a tempting proposition.

“We are giving Australians the solution to pick how they wish to organise their music collections,” Mr McLean said.

“They can stream unlimited songs across their favourite devices with the Zune Music Pass, or buy tracks to own and collect with the Music Marketplace, so whichever their preference, we have an option for them.

“Australians have such a strong passion for music and it truly is an vital component of the entertainment mix – we’re thrilled to bring this service to Australia and give men and women alternatives in how they wish to play their favourite songs.”

The release of Zune Music comes five years soon after the launch of the failed Zune player, Microsoft’s supposed answer towards the iPod that failed and is no longer in production immediately after the enterprise focused on its Windows Telephone.

The Zune Music Pass and Zune Music Marketplace will join Zune Movies, a service that has been operating for pretty much two years. Zune Music is obtainable now by way of an Xbox, smartphone or the www.zune.net(www.zune.com).