In its latest move, Microsoft is allowing its Xbox Music service available to its Android and iOS devices in order to better compete with iTunes services from Apple, as well as Spotify Ltd and Pandora Media Inc.
The Xbox Music Pass is worth USD9.99 and the service provides unlimited streaming would be available to Apple iPhones and Google Android operating system powered devices. This was confirmed by Xbox Music Principal Program Manager Scott Porter through an interview.
With the expanded market, Microsoft would gain access to the largest smartphone platforms as it aims to be the market leaders in digital music. The current leaders are Spotify in subscription streaming, Apple's iTunes for purchases and Pandora for Web radio. Microsoft had introduced the service in October for Windows 8 devices and Xbox 360 console and said it would be adding the iOS and Android devices.
According to Porter, "Music needs to be something that freely connects between devices for users to be happy. Windows users spent time curating and discovering new music and we need to give them access wherever they are."
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