Nokia Music Store goes local

By Staff Writer for Nokia
Johannesburg, 24 Apr 2009

SA has become the 16^th country to receive a local version of the Nokia Music Store. The online store was opened yesterday, and allows users to purchase and download music to their computers or compatible Nokia mobile devices.

Nokia MEA head of music Jake Larsen says the online music store provides users with just one account. They can use this to access the store via any desktop computer, or directly from optimised Nokia devices, such as the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic, Nokia N96 and Nokia N95 8GB.

A Nokia statement explains the music collection can be synchronised between the PC and a cellphone using the Nokia music PC client. This can be downloaded from the Nokia Music Store, or from the product software CD available in the latest devices' sales packs.

The statement adds that users will be able to pay for tracks via a number of means, including credit cards and prepaid solutions. The client interface will also allow for 30-second music clips to be heard before purchasing.

“South Africans have waited a long time for a local store offering both international hits and local favourites,” says Larsen.

Nokia says it has signed agreements with local and international music labels, such as Sony Music, Universal, EMI and Warner, in order to receive the latest tracks.

The online music store already has songs from local artists, including Karen Zoid, Judith Sephuma and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.