In another swat at Apple, Google is reportedly readying a music download service that could compete with iTunes (and Rhapsody and other digital music services). The Wall Street Journal is citing unnamed sources that reveal a Google-branded music play.
Yet unnamed, or even code-named — or even publicly acknowledged, for that matter — the Google service could debut later this year as a tie-in to its market-leading search engine. That would give Google widespread exposure for its rumored venture. Google would then, sources said, move to an online subscription service model in 2011.
“Google is doing this because it has relationships with music labels — via Vevo — and because ‘it can,’ but mainly because of Android,” said Greg Sterling, principal analyst at Sterling Market Intelligence. “The music experience on Android handsets is far inferior to the iPhone and iTunes, and Google sees this as an opportunity to rectify a competitive weakness.”
Google’s Inside Music Connection
The Journal’s sources didn’t have information on whether Google has struck any deals with the major record labels. But, as Sterling pointed out, Google already has a relationship with Universal Music Group in the Vevo project.
UMG and Google announced the deal in April 2010 and Vevo launched last year as a video hub that aims to attract consumers, advertisers and content owners. It relies on YouTube’s video technology to showcase Universal’s catalog of artists and content. On YouTube, this content is exclusively available through Vevo.com and a new Vevo channel through a special Vevo-branded embedded player.
“Technology has allowed fans to discover music in endless ways while creating new business opportunities for artists and labels alike,” said Google CEO Eric Schmidt when Vevo was first announced. “At Google, we are committed to promoting greater innovation and choice and are thrilled to be working with UMG in…