Just when you thought you had the whole buying digital music thing down, there’s a different way to listen that’s changing the game -- streaming.
Streaming music services have been growing in popularity offering you access to millions of songs, wherever you go.
Unlike downloading music through iTunes, streaming music is based on a subscription. Instead of paying for individual songs or albums, you sign up for a service and can listen to anything in their library over the internet.
You don’t own the music or store it on your computer or smartphone -- everything’s sent in the moment using an internet connection.
As for cost, a few services have free options and all have premium versions that will only cost you a few bucks a month.
The idea of subscription music has been around for years, but is finally reaching critical mass as companies develop unique social features and low-cost options.
There are more than a handful of options for you to choose from, but here are the most popular:
SPOTIFY
This European service just crossed the pond earlier this year and has generated the most buzz for streaming music. Big features include heavy social integration with Facebook, collaborative playlist creation and an offline mode (for premium users) that’ll download music to your phone when you’re without internet service.
Cost: There’s three options – a free version that’s offset by commercials, a $4.99 monthly version and a $9.99 monthly option that includes mobile streaming and offline play.
Website: Spotify.com
MOG
They’ve got 12 million songs available on-demand and have gained popularity recently by launching a free option that lets you work for your listening. When you promote the service on social networks, you get credit to listen for free online. Of course, you can be lazy and pay for access.
Cost: Again, thee options – the free version, a basic option without mobile listening for $4.99 and unlimited version for $9.99.
Website: MOG.com
RDIO
Social discovery is what makes Rdio stand out. You can follow friends or strangers and find all new music. They also have an app for everything – your computer, smartphone and tablet – and no matter what version you subscribe to, there’s no ads.
Cost: Three versions – Free listening, basic version for your computer or via the web for $4.99 and mobile and offline access for $9.99.
Website: Rdio.com
RHAPSODY
Rhapsody’s been around for years so they know a thing or two about streaming music. Just choose your favorite music genre and Rhapsody will serve up great playlists.
Cost: There’s a two week free trial and $10 monthly cost beyond that with mobile access included.
Website: Rhapsody.com
