Will be released to 41 international markets.
By Raif Karerat
WASHINGTON, DC: Sony has announced that it is shutting down its current Music Unlimited service and partnering with Spotify to launch a new music platform, straightforwardly dubbed “PlaySation Music.”
The new service will be released to 41 international markets and will initially be available on PlayStation consoles along with Xperia smartphones and tablets.
By pooling its resources with Spotify, the Tokyo-based company is now able to offer consumers over 30 million songs and 1.5 billion playlists to sooth any musical itch that may arise.
One of the most notable features of Spotify’s integration with the PlayStation network is the ability to use Spotify while playing games. Users will effectively be able to add their own, customized soundtracks — including any of their favorite songs — to any gaming experience at any given time.
As part of the new music model, come March 29, Sony’s existing Music Unlimited service will cease to operate in the 19 countries where it’s currently offered. In order to ease the transition and appease any disgruntled customers, Sony is making Music Unlimited free for existing users until it’s closed down.
“This partnership represents the best in music and the best in gaming coming together, which will benefit the vibrant and passionate communities of both Spotify and PlayStation Network,” Andrew House, president and group CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment, said in a press release. “We’re thrilled to make Spotify the foundation of our strategy with PlayStation Music.”
Sony’s alliance with Spotify is part of an overarching re-branding effort by the tech and electronics giant. The company also announced today that moving forward, its games, TV, video, and music services will all be consolidated into the PlayStation Network hierarchy.