Sky launches its own music download service to challenge the winning ways of iTunes.

From 19 October, music lovers will have even more choice on where to download their favourite tunes as Sky launches its own music download facility – Sky Songs.

The service, which will go head-to-head with Apple’s iTunes, will give customers access to over four million tracks for both download and ad-free streaming.

However, unlike iTunes, or Amazon’s music download service, Sky Songs will only be available through two subscription options. Customers have the option to pay £6.49 and download either an album at that price of 10 songs, or £7.99 and download either an album at that price or 15 songs, however, both come with unlimited access to stream over four million songs online for one month.

Only after opting for one of the subscriptions, will customers then be able to purchase additional music on a per-track or per-album basis.

The online music store will include back catalogue and new releases from all the major music labels, which have welcomed the launch. Graeme Ferguson, SVP Digital & Strategic Partnerships, Sony Music UK, said: “We welcome Sky’s compelling new broadband music service – our repertoire together with Sky’s expertise in marketing content will be very attractive to consumers.”

Available to any UK customer with an active broadband connection, Sky Songs will also be launched with tracks from independent labels and distributors.

Sky’s Chief Operating Officer, Mike Darcey, commented: “Our music partners bring an outstanding catalogue and unrivalled expertise that complements Sky’s strengths in content distribution.

“Sky Songs will reach out to consumers who want legitimate digital services offering choice, ease of use and great value. Offering legal access to digital music is a vital step in combating illegal downloading.”

Mark Mulligan, analyst at Forrester Research thinks Sky Songs has the potential to be a huge success. He blogged: “Sky do one very smart thing that will stand them in good stead: they enable customers to ‘dip in and out’ rather than locking them in to a year’s commitment.

“I can’t emphasise enough how important [this] should prove for Sky Songs.”

However, Mr Mulligan said that the addition of live streaming is no new concept, and he says smart marketing is essential.

To celebrate the launch, all Sky broadband customers who access the site will receive a free downloadable album worth £6.49.