AOL Launches Music Now Subscription Service

AOL Music Now has been revamped to offer a Web-based store, audio and video subscriptions, programmed radio, and it's open to anyone.

When AOL bought MusicNow in November 2005, it promised a revised, Web-based music service. Today, AOL unveiled a revamped AOL Music Now service, opening it up to any Internet user (not just its own high-speed Internet customers). AOL Music Now carries more than 2.5 million music tracks and videos, and offers subscription-based audio nd video streaming, programmed radio content, and downloadable tunes which an be transferred to PlaysForSure-compatible portable media players. AOL Music Now relies on Windows Media technology.

Digital media available to members via AOL Music now can play in a Web browser without requiring separate software, and AOL is talking up the capability for any user to come to the service and search for songs. Full access to AOL Music Now costs 410 to $15 a month, with access to XM Satellite Radio channels available for an additional $4.95 a month. Music and video previews are available to non-members.