Microsoft introduces Xbox Music and damps Windows Phone 7 users
Microsoft has officially announced the launch details for its revamped Xbox Music service, which will work on all Windows 8 desktop and mobile devices as well as on Android and iOS devices shortly thereafter. Conspicuously absent from the compatibility list are Microsoft’s own Windows 7 and Windows Phone 7 devices. Those few people who believed in and stuck by MS’ mobile platform (including the writer of these words) are once again abandoned and thrown under the bus. Xbox Music is Redmond's attempt at competing with music-streaming powerhouses like Spotify. Microsoft will offer two levels of service: a free, ad-supported version for all Windows 8 computers and tablets, and a $10 subscription service for ad-free playback on all Windows 8 and Windows 8 Mobile devices, as well as on Xbox 360 consoles. At least at launch, Windows 8 will have one advantage over consoles; Xbox 360 users will not be able to download tracks to the Xbox for offline play, and they'll have to purchase a...