When it comes to subscription-based music streaming services, the conversation doesn't go much further than Spotify and Google Play Music (previously called "All Access"). Both services are essentially the same aside from slightly different catalogues and social options, and they both run ten bucks a month for unlimited music streaming and offline track saving (although Spotify does have a free, ad-supported service).
Until recently, the choice between the two services really came down to which ecosystem you wanted to buy in to, and to varying degrees, which service the people you know have (to share playlists, for example). Then last week, Google announced a new player to the game, YouTube Music Key. The new service will allow for an ad-free music video experience with background listening (i.e., having your screen off) and offline playback.
But the true Spotify-killer feature is that not only will a subscription to YouTube Music Key come with Google Play Music included, it also works the other way around—having Google Play Music will offer you unfettered access to Music Key.
So tracks, albums, videos, and playlists will all be available for one monthly fee, and right now, you can try the service completely free for 90-days using the special link below.
Update: November 20, 2014
Seems as if the fun is over—Google caught on and has closed the glitch that allowed for the 90-day trial. However, you can still sign up for a 30-day trial.
End Update
Normally, signing up for service comes with a 30-day trial, so you'll be able to try it out for a couple of extra months before paying the $9.99/month rate. And of course, if you're not ready to pay the subscription at the end of your trial, you can always cancel (just be sure to do so prior to the 91st day after signing up).
YouTube Music Key integration should go live very soon, so now is a great time to give Google Play Music a shot. And even if you have a Spotify subscription, go ahead and try out Google's service—you've nothing to lose at this point.
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4 Comments
Hmmm... when I clicked the "Get the Google Play Music 90-Day Trial" link above it took me only to a page for the standard 30-Day trial.
Any advice?
Seems like they caught on to the glitch and closed it up... it was fun while it lasted.
Same here :/
Yup, Google caught on and fixed the glitch.
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