Napster has launched in the UK. The surprise news came at a press conference in London today (May 20) where the assembled media expected to be presented with the UK version of the music download service ahead of a launch this summer.
However, Napster and Roxio chairman and CEO, Chris Gorog, revealed that that the service went live this morning. Users can visit napster.co.uk and will be given a free seven-day subscription starting immediately.
A 500,000 track catalogue is currently available, to be increased to 700,000 in 30 days. Extra features include access to browse other user's catalogues and then purchase tracks, ten advert free radio stations and an online magazine called 'Fuzz'. Single tracks are available for 99p, with albums starting at Ј9.95.
Napster president Brad Duea said: "The UK will quickly discover why PC Magazine calls Napster 2.0 'the best online music service’. UK music fans can now download Napster 2.0 and enjoy the most exciting, comprehensive and immersive music experience available."
Napster UK general manager Leanne Sharman added: "Napster is a fantastic brand to launch in the UK and by carefully tailoring the service to the local market we have an unparalleled proposition for UK music fans." Speaking at the conference were Ash bass player Mark Hamilton and drummer Rick Mcmurray.
Napster rocks