Google has announced plans for its music download service, a full two weeks before the launch. I wish that I could say that I’m excited about this news, but I’m rather indifferent. First of all, I assume that the music download service will be connected to the current Google Music Beta, which only makes sense. The Music Beta enables individuals to upload their music libraries to the cloud…for free. That said, the logical thought is that songs purchased from Google’s music service will also be “in the cloud” for on-the-go listening. Second, the proposed cost of the downloads is reportedly $.99, much like the original track cost on iTunes.
I hope that this turns out to be a viable service for Google because it is good to have options. But, I’m not altogether sure if Google will be able to pull this off. I like the idea that there is a built in social component to the service in Google+, but Google+ is still catching on. Google may end up in the middle of the pack with social integration. Spotify is definitely the leader due to its relationship with Facebook, but iTunes is struggling with Ping. (Did this ever catch on?)
There also seems to be an issue with the catalog offering in that Google is still negotiating with a number of major record labels. This is a huge issue. The iTunes store carries more than 20 million songs and Spotify has more than 15 million songs, so if Google’s numbers aren’t comparable, listeners aren’t sticking around.
The one good thing that Google has to offer that makes the music download service worth exploring is the fact that it is to be FREE. Music in the cloud…for FREE. That in and of itself may make listeners stick around a little longer than usual. I guess we’ll all find out in 2 weeks.
Will you give Google’s Music Download Service a shot?