Report: Google Considering Cloud Launch Without Warner Music Group's Approval

Launching Without WMG's Blessing?

Last month (NET NEWS 3/25), ALL ACCESS reported that GOOGLE had begun testing GOOGLE MUSIC internally. GOOGLE employees were testing the service in-house, a process known in SILICON VALLEY as "dog-fooding." Whether the test version turns out to be the final version is unknown at this time. Now, PC MAGAZINE reports there could be some problems with the launch.

While the technology apparently is working fine, "the search giant is rumored to be 'disgusted' with the labels and could go so far as to shelve their music aspirations altogether," writes PC MAG. "Most frustrating of the labels is, reportedly, WARNER MUSIC GROUP. Those close to the negotiations claim that WMG is committed to a cloud-based strategy." The report claims WMG EVP/Digital Strategy MICHAEL NASH wants GOOGLE to charge users $30 a year to visit the cloud.

GOOGLE's position is inspired by AMAZON, who launched their cloud-based service last month (NET NEWS 3/31), without the blessing of all the major labels.

GOOGLE reportedly is willing to launch with licences, and would offer users the first 500 tracks for free.

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