Google Working on Subscription-Based Streaming Music ServiceGoogle is in negotiations with music publishers to develop a Spotify-esque subscription streaming music service for its Android operating system, reports The Wall Street Journal. Currently, Google has a scan-and-match music service like iTunes Match, as well as an Android-focused music download store. Google Inc.'s Android unit has been negotiating with music companies to start a paid subscription music-streaming service akin to Spotify AB, according to people familiar with the matter. Separately, Google's YouTube video website is trying to obtain licenses from music labels to start a paid subscription service for music videos and potentially also for audio-only songs, these people said.There have been rumors for nearly five years about Apple developing a subscription music service, though more recently reports have surfaced that Apple is aiming to release its service sometime in 2013. Bloomberg reported in October that Apple was aiming for a first quarter launch, but record labels have suggested that negotiations were hung up over licensing fees. Recent Mac and iOS Blog Stories • Watch Nearly Every Steve Jobs Video on New Blog Site and YouTube Channel • Facebook iOS Update Adds Free VoIP Calling in US and Canada • App Brings Iconic James Bond 'Gun Barrel' to Your iPhone • LEGO The Lord of the Rings Hits the Mac App Store • Google Releases Updated Maps for iOS SDK, Opens API Keys to All Developers • Popcap's 'Plants vs. Zombies' for iPhone and iPad Available for Free • Officially Licensed Craigslist App Enhances Mobile Experience with Image-centric Interface • Simogo's Creepy Puzzle Adventure 'Year Walk' Now Available
http://www.macrumors.com/2013/02/23/google-working-on-subscription-based-streaming-music-service/
