Microsoft has announced that its MSN Music service will be discontinued. The announcement comes a few days before the official US launch of Microsoft"s Zune player and its associated Zune Marketplace.
"Beginning November 14th, 2006, MSN Music will no longer offer music downloads through the MSN Music store... On November 14th, Microsoft will launch Zune, our exciting new digital media player. MSN will partner with the Zune team to make it simple for MSN Music users to find and download music from the new Zune Marketplace. The Zune Marketplace will enable you to purchase tracks individually or to buy a Zune Pass subscription to download as many songs as you want for a flat fee."
People with unredeemed credit (like myself) can request a refund for the unused amount on or after November 14th. No word if you"ll be able to apply unused credit towards music or subscription packages on the Zune Marketplace.
"You can redeem your song certificate for MSN Music downloads through November 13th. Starting November 14th, you may request a refund for the value of your promotional pin or song certificate. Instructions for how to request a refund will be posted here on November 14th."
Microsoft will continue to support the DRM files purchased through the service after its closure.