A persistent rumor over the past months has pertained to Google having a music service in the works, and today those rumors were proved true, with a live beta service pushed out into the open on day one of Google I/O.
The music service has kicked off with a number of features, though it doesn’t appear it’s possible to purchase music through it yet.
First up, the service will allow you to upload your music collection. There is not, as yet, any firm word on space limitations, though the Google Music site does say that
”You don’t have to worry about … running out of storage space.”
Your music will then be available either via a web interface or on your Android device. Again, it is not clear whether this service will be available on other platforms but, given Google’s history, it does seem likely. All the songs that you have listened to recently will be available offline and you will also be able to select albums/songs e to always be available offline.
This is a huge plus in my opinion, since it allows access to my entire collection without taking up space on my device.
Playlists are also supported – including “instant playlists” where the service will create a playlist based on a song you specify with other songs that will match that mood. All playlists are automatically synchronized between the web and your device.
Google Music is live now and you can request an invite on the service page.
Check out the official video for more details.
