Google Music due by year-end

Google will launch an iTunes-rivaling music service by Christmas, to boost the appeal of its Android operating system.
 
The search giant is reportedly in talks with major music labels over the look and feel of the service, with discussions being headed by Andy Rubin the brains behind the Android platform, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.
 
One record-label executive said the Google service – dubbed Google Music – would be a credible rival to Apple’s dominant iTunes service in terms of reach, Wired reported.
 
Google’s purchase of online media firm Simplify Media in May has also prompted speculation it’s music service will be cloud based, allowing users to access their library of tunes while on the go, Wired said.
 
Apple could also launch a cloud-based version of iTunes using technology from LaLa Media, which it acquired in December.