Virgin to launch UK version of digital music store

Posted on 1 Aug 2005 at 12:58

Virgin is to launch the UK version of its Virgin Digital online music store 2 September.

Already a year into existence in the US, the new store takes over from the UK's existing Virgin.Net service and ties in closely with the company's MegaStore chain.

Stores will be fitted out with a dedicated Digital section, where MP3 players will be on sale, along with tunes available for download.

The service will launch with more than a million tracks available and use the WMA-based MusicNet back-end, as opposed to the LoudEye engine used by many European rivals, for example Panasonic's new UK offering.

Music will be available either by subscription or per track. Alongside the store, Virgin Digital will also offer Internet radio, and facilitate ripping, burning and management of tracks via software.

Steven Kincaid, Marketing Director for Virgin Megastores UK said: 'We are launching Virgin Digital as the demand for quality downloads intensifies. With a strong music heritage behind us and a high profile on the high street, we believe Virgin has the best platform to launch a digital service that will become the ultimate download destination.'

Final pricing and the full catalogue of available music have yet to be announced.

Author: Matt Whipp

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous News : General Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.