Google unveils Android-based online music store
EMI, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal and 23 independent labels are providing content to create a library of 13 million songs.
However, Warner Music Group has opted not to take part at this point.
The service poses a challenge to Apple's dominance of the sector. It launched its iTunes store in 2003.
The popularity of the iPod maker's mobile devices helped drive sales.
However, a new study by the research firm Gartner suggests that more than half of all smartphones sold between July and September ran Android. That accounts for more than 60 million devices.
By comparison Apple's iOS handsets accounted for 15% of the market over the same period, according to the study.
Social network
Google is also integrating its new service with its Google+ social network.
Users will be able to share songs with their Circles contacts who can listen to the full length of the tracks one time without making a purchase.
Songs range in price from 69 cents (44p) to $1.29 and come without DRM copy-protection. The search giant is also offering a different track free for download every day.
The firm announced it has secured exclusive content.
The rapper Busta Rhymes - who was at the launch event - is debuting his new studio album on the Android store. The Rolling Stones and Coldplay are offering previously unreleased live performances.
Google is also hoping to link with smaller artists through its new Artist Hub. Musicians can add their own page for a $25 fee and set their own prices. Google will take a 30% share of each sale; Kazinform cites BBC.
To learn more go to www.bbc.co.uk
