Mobile multi-media provider Hutchison 3G Austria has launched a music store that gives consumers a choice between subscription and download-to-own platforms.
The download-to-own store has a catalog of over 3.3 million audio tracks (in MP3 and WMA formats) and over 60,000 WMA videos, with realtones to be added soon. Universal Music, Sony BMG, EMI Music and a host of independent labels currently provide content to the service.
Audio tracks are priced between €0.99 ($1.28) and €1.29 ($1.66), while video tracks are €1.99 ($2.57).
The subscription service, named MoreMusic, is available in weekly and monthly models. Universal Music is currently the only major signed on for this service alongside “key indies,” according to a company statement.
The weekly model costs €2.99 (£3.86) per week and the user can unsubscribe at any time, while the monthly model costs €10 ($12.88) per month and users can unsubscribe with eight weeks notice.
“The launch of the 3MusicStore and the subscription service MoreMusic will be changing the way people experience music on the move and on their PC in Austria,” said Fabian Seydewitz, head of products and services at Hutchison 3G Austria, in a statement. “Consuming music on the mobile will be so straightforward and such good value that it is as easy as making a phone call. There is no catch and it is legal.”
The dual delivery service will be powered by digital entertainment provider 24-7 Entertainment.
