By Phil Dzikiy @phildzikiy ● Wednesday, December 5, 2012

The rumored Apple streaming radio service appears unlikely to launch in the very near future, according to a CNET report. Though the article focuses on Pandora, it’s mentioned that Apple’s rumored competing service isn’t ready to launch, as sources note a deal with all the major record labels “is nowhere near to being completed.” All reports have indicated Apple is negotiating directly with record companies to secure music rights for the service. A previous report noted Apple planned on releasing the service in the first quarter of 2013; it’s unclear if that is still feasible, though possible that the company could launch with limited support and add companies later.