Audio Video News

Sony is taking the wraps off a streaming music service called Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity.

The new service will operate via subscription, like Rhapsody, versus download, like iTunes. It will enable owners Sony TVs, Blu-ray players, HTiBs, and PS3 gaming consoles to enjoy a catalogue of six million songs. Eventually it will also cover Android phones, Sony portable devices, and other things.

While the service is making its debut in the U.K. and Ireland, it will expand in 2011 to the U.S. and other countries. Pricing will be four euros a month (about $5) for basic service and 10 euros a month ($13) for premium service. The latter lets you hear every song on demand, create personal playlists, and access the premium Top 100 channels.

Music Unlimited follows the debut of a little-known Video on Demand powered by Qriocity service in early 2010. Look further back in Sony history for the failed Sony Connect, a music download service which shut its virtual doors in 2008 after failing to make a dent in iTunes.

See This Week In Consumer Electronics and Qriocity website.