Apple acquired Beats Electronics more than half a year ago for the record amount of $3.2 billion. But so far the company has remained silent regarding its plans about the new acquisition. New information, however, now reveals curious details.
A recent report by 9to5Mac says that Apple is preparing to launch a new music service. The platform is said to rely on Beats Music technology and features. In addition to that, it will be integrated into Apple’s own music ecosystem because it will support iTunes.
What is even more interesting is that the Apple Beats music venture will not only be available on iOS devices and Apple TV. Insiders also state that it will land on… Android gadgets. That would mean that the tech giant will develop its very first app for Google’s mobile operating system.
The idea of Apple making Android applications might sound unbelievable. However, back in 2013, the company’s CEO, Tim Cook, stated that Apple was actually exploring the opportunities. According to Cook, Apple Inc. would develop an Android app if that “made sense.”
Apple’s music service may look like a rebranding of Beats Music, since the upcoming platform will offer features like playlists, activities and mixes. Nevertheless, the report explains that this won’t be the case. For one, the service will rock brand new design and interface. Also, users will be able to sign in either with their Apple ID or Beats Music profiles.
Apple has already started working on the platform, according to the report. It is even stated that the company will probably release it in 2015.
Currently, the company is reported to be developing a search function that will allow consumers to search through the catalogues of iTunes and Beats Music at the same time. This rumour seems to be true, since one of Apple’s latest job offers refers to a search platform. In the description of an Engineering Project Manager, it is explained that the work will be related to a “search platform supporting hundreds of millions of users.
Clearly, Apple’s upcoming music platform will directly rival music streaming services like Spotify. Spotify’s premium subscription plan is available for $9.99 per month. Apple’s Beats-based service is promoted at $7.99 per month. Not very innovative, indeed!
