Google ups its music game

23 October 2014 - 02:17 By Bloomberg
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Google is working on building chips operating on sub-atomic levels in ways making them exponentially faster than processors currently used in computers
Google is working on building chips operating on sub-atomic levels in ways making them exponentially faster than processors currently used in computers
Image: KIMIHIRO HOSHINO

Google is updating its music application so users can get the right mix of songs, whether they are exercising, driving to the office or trying to take a nap.

Google Play Music, which offers a subscription service, is unveiling a concierge feature that chooses a music package based on activities, moods or times of day, said product manager Brandon Bilinski.

The update, which also includes changes to the look and feel of the application, is the first to incorporate Google's acquisition of Songza, which specialises in new ways of curating song selections.

The internet-search company and developer of Android mobile software is devoting more resources to music services to distinguish itself from rivals boosting investments in entertainment content.

Earlier this year, Apple Inc spent about $3-billion to acquire Beats Electronics LLC, a music-streaming service and headphone maker following a move by Amazon.com Inc to introduce its own music offering.

"Google is serious about the music space," Bilinski said.

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