Apple is now close to signing deals that would pave the way for the company’s music streaming service, according to a new report. Sources claim Apple could reach agreements with Universal Music Group and Warner Music in the next week; a prior report indicated significant progress had been made in Apple’s dealings with the two record labels. While it’s believed the deals have Apple paying 6 cents per 100 songs streamed — half of what Pandora pays to record labels, and previously reported to be the main reason for delaying the service — the new report claims Apple’s service will offer additional revenue streams. Consumers will be able to buy a song they hear through iTunes, and a revenue share of new audio ads would also benefit labels. Sources say the streaming service will most closely resemble Pandora — it won’t offer on-demand listening, but “some unique features, such as the ability to jump back to the beginning of a song” may be included. By all indications, Apple is still prepping the service for a summer launch. [via CNET]
Phil Dzikiy was the Editor-in-Cheif at iLounge. He mostly edited and oversaw all site editorial content, managed staff and freelancers, made the final call on product review grades and awards, and led online coverage of all Apple events and live coverage of the International CES in 2015.