MSN Mobile launches music download service

Microsoft has launched a new music download service on the MSN Mobile Portal that will allow UK download tracks, ringtones and videos from record labels including Sony Music and Warner Music. The service is the first time Microsoft has offered mobile downloads.

MSN Mobile Music has partnered with digital music specialists, VidZone Digital Media, to provide the service, which is compatible with over 130 popular handsets and more being added throughout the year.

Consumers will be able to log onto the site and search through Microsoft’s catalogue of up to 1 million tracks, 25,000 realtones and 10,000 music videos by logging onto www.msn.co.uk in their phone internet browser and selecting the music service from the menu. Alternatively users can text MSN to 63463 and will be sent a link to the service.

Users who have an internet enabled phone may purchase full tracks for £1.50, realtones for £3.00 or music videos at £2.00 each via the PayForIt billing framework.

Hugh Griffiths, director of MSN Mobile UK, says: “With over 130 handsets having access to the music store from day one, this is an exciting proposition that for the first time provides consumers a network agnostic service with a vast array of new and old music from major music labels.”

Charges will appear on the user’s monthly bill in the case of post pay, or debited direct from the pre-pay balance for pay-as-you-go mobile plans.

Michael Russo, chief technology officer of VidZone Digital Media, says:

“This partnership builds upon the existing relationship we have with Microsoft’s Xbox Live service and the MSN Video portal. This deal not only highlights the importance MSN is putting on music content, but is also an example of music monetisation that has chart effect.”