Omnifone's MusicStation

British firm Omnifone opened the 3GSM expo in Barcelona by announcing a new software music solution for cell phones. Offered as an alternative to non-Apple cell phones, MusicStation aims to offer an iPhone and iTunes-like experience for music playback and organization and simple music purchase--without, however, an tethered PC: MusicStation provides convenient over-the-air music downloads and purchases, challenging Apple's industry-leading iTunes interface. Central to the design is a consciously iPod-influenced jukebox program, according to the company. "Installing on top of any Java or Symbian phone, regardless of carrier, the software is built to recreate the experience of both a dedicated portable music player as well as an online store," Electronista reports. The extra layer will give an iPhone-like experience without the absolute need for a computer, Omnifone claimed. Based on a weekly-subscription model for unlimited downloads, it also automatically recommends concerts, music, and news based on listening habits as well as offers social networking features, according to the report.

by MacNN Staff