Apple Releases iTunes Match Beta

Apple plans to make its users music listening and purchasing experiences slightly more convenient with the new iTunes Match service.

The company recently released the beta version of the program which will integrate Apple’s iCloud service with the ability to scan and match a consumer’s existing music library.

iTunes match will make the iCloud scan a user’s computer to locate music. It will then match the user’s music to a server in the cloud which will allow them to access their music library from any device.

In other words users will not have to upload each music file individually.

The iTunes Match service will be offered by Apple for $25 a year.

Apple is attempting to compete with other cloud music competitors such as Google and Amazon who already have streaming services which allow users to upload music onto a cloud and stream it to multiple devices.

The service provides automatic access to your entire music library anywhere that has an internet connection, making it extremely convenient not having to upload every single song to a specific device.

Apple plans to join Google and Amazon with iTunes Match, but will attempt to compete with the two by not streaming at all.

Instead the service simply scans a user’s computer for music so songs do not have to be uploaded to a cloud. It then not only makes them accessible through other devices, but actually downloads it to the device, according to All Things D.

Apple will use technology that allows users to listen to a song simultaneously while downloading it which will differentiate the service from competitors.

iTunes Match will be available with iOS 5.