In June, Microsoft (sort of) confirmed that it would soon be shutting down its online Zune Music service, in favor of the upcoming Xbox Music service. While Microsoft has yet to reveal any concrete details on Xbox Music, it is already starting to phase out Zune Music.
In an email sent to one of Neowin"s readers, a statement from Microsoft said that it would be closing some of the features in Zune Music after Friday, August 31st. The list of features to get the sunset treatment include the ability to send and receive messages and being able to invite friends. Microsoft will also shut down Zune Music"s ability to share songs, playlists, and albums.
Being able to purchase or stream music videos on a PC is also out, as is Zune Music"s Mixview playback and channel playlists. Apps for the now discontinued Zune HD media player won"t be available either. Finally, if you plan to upgrade your PC after Friday, you won"t be able to re-download, re-activate, or re-license any previously bought music videos from Zune Music.
Hopefully Microsoft won"t keep us in suspense about its new Xbox Music service for much longer. We should get some details before the launch of Windows 8 on October 26th.
Thanks to Matthew_Thepc for the tip!