• PC World, Friday, April 22, 2011 11:32 AM

Likely beating Google to the punch, Apple is reportedly almost ready to debut its online music storage service. "Apple's plans will allow iTunes customers to store their songs on a remote server, and then access them from wherever they have an Internet connection," reports Reuters, citing unnamed sources. "The service is expected to arrive some point this summer, and Apple is yet to sign any licenses with music labels," according to PCWorld.

Amazon launched a similar service earlier this month, but without one key ingredient, notes MediaMemo. "Amazon started its service without getting approval from the big music labels ... But Apple is actively seeking licenses for its service, and will pay the labels for the privilege." According to MediaMemo, "Apple will let users store songs they've purchased from its iTunes store, as well as others songs stored on their hard drives, and listen to them on multiple devices."

"Apple's upcoming music streaming service could come in the form of an enhanced version of MobileMe," according to Apple Insider. "In February, The Wall Street Journal reported that Apple plans to revamp its MobileMe offerings by adding a free 'locker' service for storing photos, music and videos."

Meanwhile, "Google had been expected to launch a music service as a feature of its Android mobile operating system as far back as last Christmas, but it seems to be no further ahead," The Next Web writes.

Adds Reuters: "Music industry executives are pointing to changes in top management at Google as a possible reason for the technology company's uncertain music strategy."

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