Nokia will be allowing users of the Asha range of smartphones to use its free music streaming service for the first time. Previously only usable by Lumia Windows Phone devices, the Nokia Music with Mix Radio service will be available on Asha touch devices in the coming weeks, and will initially roll out in Russia before heading into other markets.
Nokia has released its first Windows 8 and Windows RT app, one that originally launched on the manufacturer's Windows Phone line of devices. Nokia Music brings the same streaming radio subscription service as its phone-based counterpart, but in an app scaled up to work on a full-sized desktop computer screen, or Windows RT tablet.
Nokia is introducing an upgrade option to its Music service, with minor service improvements given in exchange for a subscription bringing it in line with premium-tier offerings from other services like Spotify. Nokia Music+ will expand on the existing free Mix Radio service by offering access away from Nokia handsets, the removal of download limits, and an improvement of sound quality.
As of Tuesday, September 4, owners of Nokia's Lumia-branded and Windows Phone-powered handsets in the US can access the phonemaker's free Nokia Music service. The service was available to European Lumia owners since last year, and includes more than 150 unique playlists, each created by a devoted "musicologist." There are playlists featuring artists that include Rihanna and Lady Gaga, as well as musical genres that range from underground Detroit house to compositions by the New York Philharmonic.
Nokia in kicking off the Lumia Windows Phone mix also brought out its first Windows Phone services, including a few that give it an edge over other WP7 phones and the iPhone. Nokia Drive gives owners a full, turn-by-turn GPS navigation app with voice directions and free maps in a car-ready interface. The launch not only makes it the only Windows Phone with turn-by-turn built-in but now puts it roughly on par with Android's Google Maps Navigation, which has usually been the only other option for built-in car mapping.
