Google music service stores tunes remotely

Google Inc. has unveiled “Music Beta by Google.” It lets users store tunes remotely and access them from any compatible device, including mobile phones, tablets and computers.

Google will likely need deals with the recording industry to reach its full potential. Among the services not offered is “de-duplication,” which lets users skip uploading their own copies to the cloud if there is an identical file already available.

The service will be available by invitation only, free of charge while it is being tested. Google did not say whether, or how much, it plans to charge.

Associated Press