Xbox Music was initially announced by Microsoft at E3 this year. Now sources of The Verge familiar with Microsoft's plans suggest that the software giant has finally set a date for its official release. The company plans to launch the service on October 26, which is also the scheduled date for the company's much awaited latest OS, Windows 8.
Xbox Music is expected to offer ad-supported free music streaming on any device that uses a Microsoft-built OS including Windows 8 PCs and tablets, Windows Phone and of course, the Xbox 360.
Similar to Spotify, which is based on the same freemium model, users will be able to pay a monthly fee to enjoy the service without the ads along with subscriptions like the Zune Music Pass. But those who don't mind listening to a few ads after a couple of songs, do not need to pay a subscription fee.
Microsoft had launched SkyDrive, its cloud-based service a few months ago, which has now become a valuable asset in Windows 8. Well, Xbox Music will include SkyDrive integration that will allow users to store and access music and playlists in the cloud across all Windows 8 devices.
The Verge has also learnt that eventually, Microsoft plans Xbox Music to be available on cross platforms including iOS and Android as well, although apps for the two ecosystems won't be immediately available.
Furthermore, an Xbox Dashboard update will incorporate Xbox Music onto Microsoft's flagship gaming console. Music and video apps for Windows 8 will also be updated to support Xbox Music after launch. There are still no official dates for these changes but they're all likely occur on or around the 26th of this month.
Microsoft now has plenty on its plate with a new operating system an improved mobile platform and also a bunch of new devices hitting the market soon. The music service was the only thing left and lets hope that Microsoft makes the most of it on October 26 2012.
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