No doubt influenced by the success of Apple's iTunes downloading service, Microsoft have re-launched their MSN Music Club so that fans in the UK, France and Germany can now buy single songs on a pay-as-you go basis rather than having to commit to a monthly subscription. Most tracks will be available for 75p, though there will also be a number of 'gold tracks' – records available several weeks before retail release – which will be available for £1.19. Unlike iTunes consumers will also be able to buy full albums for £7.99.
Microsoft will be hoping to gain competitive advantage over the Apple service by launching over here first – iTunes is still only available for Mac users in the US – though works is already underway to extend the service to PC users, and to music fans around the world.