(CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — UK-based Virgin Group plans to launch its digital music service, Virgin Digital UK
, on September 2, offering a library of over 1 million tracks for $1.42 (79p) each. The service was developed in-house, and will feature tracks licensed through US-based MusicNet. In addition to permanent downloads, Virgin Digital will offer a basic subscription for $18 (9.99 pounds) per month and a premium version for $27 (14.99 pounds) per month.
Virgin Digital will be promoted within all Virgin Megastores, which will also sell MP3 hardware compatible with the service from Samsung, Sony, Creative and iRiver; the service will not support Apple's iPod.
The company also partnered with UK broadband provider Blueyonder, to offer free downloads and trial subscriptions to Virgin Digital.
"With a strong music heritage behind us, as a record label and a retailer, Virgin has a huge advantage, and platform to launch a digital service that will become the ultimate destination to buy, stream, burn and enjoy the best the music world has to offer," said Virgin Group founder Richard Branson. –Jane Cohen and Bob Grossweiner
