The music service is the latest in Google’s attempts to compete with many of Apple’s existing markets. The Google service offers music from all the major labels alongside many smaller ones, and prices for songs are similar to iTunes at €0.99 or €1.29 for a majority of tracks. Independent artists can also upload and sell songs to Google Play users.

The store differs from traditional digital music retailers as it is entirely based around cloud and online storage. A user’s music library can be accessed through their Internet-connected devices. It is, however, possible to store songs for offline listening (similar to Spotify), and individuals are allowed add up to 20,000 of their previously owned songs to their new Play library without the need to upload or repurchase them.

As well as their music catalogue, Google Play offers features such as recommendations and automatic playlist creation of songs that ‘go well’ together. Google also promise the release of concerts and performances exclusive to Play Music.

Restrictions

Google Play Music natively supports Internet browsers and Android tablets & phones, and will also work on Flash enabled devices. Although not officially supported on iOS, the service is accessible on Apple devices through browsers or third party apps like gMusic.

While today’s launch sees Google Play Music available in Ireland and 7 other countries, other Google Play services – such as their book, magazine and film / TV stores – remain unavailable outside the US and a handful of other territories.

The Play Music store is available here.