HMV, one of the UK's leading music specialists, yesterday unveiled HMV Digital, its new music downloads service, created in partnership with Microsoft.
The HMV Digital player, effectively a customised jukebox, allows customers to download tracks from the HMV Digital store. Users can then create their own play lists from a personal music library, which they can enjoy at home or on the move - either by playing it on their PCs, MP3 players or by burning their own CDs. The Jukebox will also enable customers to transfer physical CD collections onto their digital music players.
The software needed to use HMV Digital will be distributed as a free CD-Rom through the 200-plus network of HMV stores across the UK and Ireland or it can simply be downloaded via the HMV web site.
Importantly, Windows Media Audio 9, the technology on which the HMV Digital service is based, is compatible with a wide range of digital music players, a selection of which will be sold and merchandised in specially created HMV Digital sections in all their stores. HMV Digital also includes support for Windows Media 10 Digital Rights Management (DRM) which will enable consumers to take both music downloads and subscription content with them on the go using their portable players.
Steve Knott, Managing Director of HMV said,
"HMV has a track record of embracing new technologies and always being part of the process of change. We have sold every available music format since we opened our doors in 1921, and are dedicated to offering our customers specialist access to the widest selection of recorded music through whichever medium or format they require.
Working with Microsoft, HMV Digital combines state-of-the-art technology with a simple and easy to use service, allowing our customers to buy and manage their music online. We believe that our extensive range, as well as the expertise, knowledge and service provided by our staff, both in-store and online, will make HMV Digital a leading choice for digital downloading in the UK."
Alistair Baker, Microsoft UK Managing Director added,
"This leading edge retail project enables music fans to buy music in-store and online - in fact anywhere. Consumers will be able to listen to the music they want to hear on a whole range of devices from different manufacturers. The development of the HMV jukebox player combines the industry knowledge of the HMV team with the software development, product expertise and consulting skills of Microsoft. HMV Digital is all about freedom of choice and Microsoft is proud that its technology is at the heart of this service."
At its launch on Monday September 5, HMV Digital will have well over 1 million tracks available for download, though this is expected to grow significantly in the coming months as more music is digitised by record labels.
In line with the current market, the majority of tracks will be set at £0.79 ($1.46) with albums available at £7.99 ($14.72).
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