Windows 7: Microsoft bringing Zune services to Europe, more

Weeks ahead of the European Windows Phone 7 launch, Microsoft has announced that its Zune digital entertainment platform will soon be available to more regions. Version 4.7 of the Zune software will be available in more than 20 countries, but Microsoft's various services will be limited to far less.

The Zune Pass music subscription service will arrive in the UK, France, Italy, and Spain with unlimited downloads and streaming for £8.99 / €9.99 per month. However, unlike the $14.99 US offering, EU users won't be able to keep 10 DRM-free songs per month -- meaning that if you cancel your subscription, you lose access to the music.

Customers in the above noted regions (as well as Germany) will be able to buy music, while video purchases will extend to Canada, Australia and New Zealand with playback support on your PC, Xbox Live, and Windows Phone 7 devices. Even more nations will have video rentals. Redmond names Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Mexico in addition to the others.



Source: Microsoft bringing Zune services to Europe, more - TechSpot News

Hi there
This type of DRM limited stuff is a FAILED business model.

The whole idea of DRM'ed music is DEAD DEAD DEAD. People want to be able to keep and play songs on ANY of their equipment -- just like they can do with CD's etc.

Even Apple's music store allows compatability with Windows and you can transfer the mp3 formats to other players after a bit of conversion.

DRM is a DEAD DEAD DUCK -- Microsoft you have some great ideas --such as Windows and Office but for Smart Phone operating systems and most digital entertainment media you've probably arrived MUCH too late at the party.

Much Much better for money if you really want to pay a music subscription service is SPOTIFY --if you don't mind the odd commercial or too its even FREE.

Spotify - Tout un monde en musique

This is the French site as I'm working in France but just choose other EU countries for the rest of Europe.


MS I'd go back to the drawing board on this one.

Cheers
jimbo