Google to launch cloud-connected music store?

by Steven Mostyn - Oct 17 2011, 12:59

With more than a healthy presence in major technology markets such as online search and computer operating software, it would appear Google is now angling to steal the limelight where online multimedia distribution is concerned.

That’s according to a report in the New York Times that claims the California-based titan plans to launch a cloud-connected music store capable of rivaling those of both Apple and Amazon.

Citing unnamed music executives, the report suggests Google is deep in discussions with several leading music publishers (i.e., EMI, Universal, Sony and Warner Bros) with a view to selling their content.

It also claims the EMI deal is close to being finalized and the others could be secure soon thanks to a robust copyright protection plan unveiled by Google in December of 2010.

Some of the copyright protection tools enforced by said plan would see Google filtering piracy-related terms from search results and responding to publisher takedown notices within a period of 24 hours.

Although Google is remaining tightlipped regarding the possible existence of an online music store, industry watchers claim the platform could be unveiled before the close of October, which would put it head-to-head with Apple’s upcoming iTunes Match service.

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