Rdio launches beta app for Android handsets
updated 08:30 pm EDT, Tue July 13, 2010
App connects to cloud-based streaming music
Rdio has launched a beta version of its Android app that connects to the company's streaming music service. The utility syncs with content chosen from the web-based portal, which provides access to albums and individual tracks from a wide range of artists.
The startup, formed by founders of Skype and Kazaa, aims to bring a social networking focus to its service. Rdio features lists of friends and what they are listening to, which can then be added to the user's personal collection. Links to favorite songs can also be shared with friends via Facebook, Twitter, or e-mail.
The portal provides options for syncing tracks or albums to the mobile device for offline listening, while a scanning tool attempts to replicate iTunes or Windows Media Player libraries. Available music includes over five million songs from major labels and independent sources.
The Rdio Android app is currently limited to an invite-only beta, with several thousand spots available for now. Web and mobile access, which also includes an iPhone app, is available for $10/month, while web-only access can be purchased for $5/month. [via TechCrunch - Invite link]
