When we first heard Microsoft’s plans for Xbox Music, there was a mention of web, iOS, and Android versions. Next week the software maker will launch a web version of Xbox Music so that subscribers can access the service across various platforms from a browser. Microsoft previously launched Xbox Music on its Xbox 360 console, Windows 8, and Windows Phone 8 in October, providing a Spotify-like streaming service for music, but the service was limited to the company’s own products.
Microsoft to launch web-based version of Xbox Music next week
is a senior correspondent and author of Notepad, who has been covering all things Microsoft, PC, and tech for over 20 years.
Sources familiar with Microsoft’s Xbox Music plans have revealed to The Verge that the web-based version will launch next week at music.xbox.com. Microsoft has already started updating its Xbox Music pages in preparation, noting on some, that it’s “now available on the web.” Xbox Music on the web will work in a similar way to Spotify’s own web version, letting you stream music through the browser and manage playlists. While it won’t launch until next week, it’s possible that Microsoft may highlight the upcoming release during its Build developer conference that starts on June 26th.
Alongside the web version, Microsoft is also refreshing its Xbox Music app for Windows 8.1. The new design includes a two panel interface that improves discoverability and quick access to collections of songs. The app will also support music files from SD cards, and improve Play To support for songs outside of the Xbox Music catalogue. Microsoft will release a preview version of Windows 8.1 on June 26th.
Update: an anonymous tipster has kindly sent in a number of screenshots of the interface, which looks identical to Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 application.
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