Google is planning to closely link an upcoming music download store with its Google+ social network, according to a published report. ZDNet Asia sister site CNET reported last week that Google was planning a new social "twist" to the concept of the traditional MP3 download store. Now the Wall Street Journal has reported that the plan involves Google+.
As envisioned, Google Music users could buy a song and then gift the track to contacts, who would be allowed to listen once for free, said music industry insiders who have knowledge of the plan. The WSJ reported that the store could debut within the next two weeks. Industry sources who spoke with CNET said Google does not have all four of the major record companies signed yet, but may be willing to launch without them.
These individuals added that Google has agreements with about a dozen of large independent labels. All the top labels want Google selling music in the market, but the sides still can't agree on terms.
What we do know is that music fans give up on services that don't have the music they want. Google's YouTube has shown that the company can use its platform to distribute music successfully. Over the past five years, YouTube videos have breathed new life into music videos, which had been stagnant since MTV largely gave up on them.