Apple is preparing to re-launch a subscription-based music streaming service that will pit the company directly against Spotify and other similar business organizations.
For this project, the Cupertino-based company has enlisted the help of Nine Inch Nails vocalist Trent Reznor and Dr. Dre's Beats, according to The Guardian.
According to insiders who claim to have knowledge of the matter, Reznor's participation mainly involves designing the music app for Apple's music streaming service. Jimmy Iovine, the co-founder of Beats, on the other hand, is responsible for persuading record companies to exclusively premiere high-profile albums through Apple.
But since Apple is targeting to deliver premium service to consumers, the price for its subscription fee might be more expensive that what other music streaming companies offer.
Generally, companies such as Rdio, Rhapsody and Spotify offer their services for around $10. Apple previously tried to target a cheaper monthly fee at $8 by asking record labels to lower their music licensing costs. However, due to the abundance of music streaming alternatives, the record companies did not give in to Apple's request, the New York Times reported.
Despite the setback, Apple is still committed to re-launching the project with the help of its partners. The new service will be like Beats Music but will be called a different name.
In addition, Apple is also gearing up for the revamped version of the iTunes Radio. This endeavor is being handled by Zane Lowe, the former DJ for BBC Radio One and an influential figure in the U.K. radio scene.
The new version of the iTunes Radio will reportedly function like a traditional radio station and will be region-based. This means Apple will utilize geographical targeted programming to play music based on the listeners' locations.
Apple has not yet set a timeline regarding the official release for the new music streaming service and for the updated iTunes Radio.
