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Microsoft Closing MSN Music Service

By Ed Oswald, BetaNews

November 3, 2006, 11:39 AM

Microsoft has decided to shut down its MSN Music downloads site by mid-month, transitioning it to an entertainment portal. In addition, the company will redirect those looking for music downloads to either RealNetwork's Rhapsody site or its upcoming Zune music service.

Those who have purchased songs from MSN Music will still be able to play, transfer and burn them after the service closes. Those with gift certificate balances or other credits will be able to request a refund after November 14.

The closing of MSN Music seems to be intended to clear the way for Zune, which will launch the same day. Neither is the future of PlaysForSure clear; although Microsoft is directing owners of compatible players to other providers.

"I'm surprised Microsoft didn't try to offer something like replacement for existing content in either Rhapsody or Zune formats," JupiterResearch analyst Michael Gartenberg said. "Either way, it shows the problems of picking the wrong format in a format war, especially when one format owns 75% of the market."

At its launch in September 2004, Microsoft touted MSN Music as superior to iTunes due to its compatibility with a wide range of players. Apple took the opposite approach, saying it would fail because it was incompatible with the iPod.

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By digitalking

posted Nov 6, 2006 - 10:20 AM

Does anyone know what will happen MP3 players like Creatives? I was leaning towards buying a Nomad, but now since PlayForSure is likely dead, I don't know. I love the unlimited download services, I just wish I knew if Apple would be offering that soon.

Score: 0

By drumcat

posted Nov 6, 2006 - 3:13 AM

Precisely why DRM sucks donkeyballs.

Score: 0

By drummerboy627

posted Nov 4, 2006 - 3:02 PM

anyone know of the future of URGE?

Score: 0

By PC_Tool

posted Nov 6, 2006 - 8:59 AM

Sorry, man. Crystal ball's on the fritz.

Score: 0

By cranbers

edited Nov 3, 2006 - 10:15 PM

I would be leary of using any kind of download music with drm except for itunes for this very reason. It is the only service that has been consistent. I would especially be leary of anything microsoft puts out in the future. This is no doubt a 50 lb 5 foot sword to the back of all playforesure devices from third party's. I have no doubt microsoft will have made a whole lot of enemies by making this decision.

This definetely spells the end for creative's mp3 business and maybe even the end of creative in general and will squeeze sandisk to a lower percentage within a few months.

I admit apple needs a competitor. Too bad its microsoft that will no doubt use tactics that are on the edge of unethical to muscle its way into the industry as its own format and entity and shutting out all third party's players just like apple does. There really is just no way microsoft will be able to de throne apple unless of course apple goes belly up for whatever reason. The only people who will suffer as i said is the remaining competitors and smaller company's not worth mentioning.

Score: 0

By darkzero63

posted Nov 4, 2006 - 1:21 AM

I knew the writing was on the wall when Sandisk sided with Rhapsody.

Score: 0

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