Google may be one of Apple’s biggest competitors, but it’s simultaneously one of their biggest collaborators. Google is primarily a software company and can’t afford for its product to be omitted from Apple’s mobile platform, as it’s one of the most popular platforms on the market. As with its Google Maps or Google Now features, Google’s Play Music All Access app will be coming to iOS. According to engadget.com:
“If you’ve been against trying Google’s Play Music All Accessstreaming service for lack of an official iOS app, it may soon be time to change your tune. Sources aware of Google’s plans have let slip to Engadget that not only is the company currently testing a native Google Music iOS app internally, but that it’ll launch later this month. We’re told that while employees have been invited to test the app, Google still needs to fix a few bugs before it’s ready for release.
“Google currently lets users in more than 19 countries sign up for its Standard and All Access music services, allowing offline and streaming access. Some users have made do with unofficial iOS apps in addition to a limited web app, but Google is said to be including the same custom radio and smart recommendation features found in the Android app. The company had previously closed the door on iOS users because Flash was needed to enforce DRM restrictions set by music labels. Now, Google appears to have overcome that issue and is nearly ready to launch.”
This is another example of an advantage iOS has over Android. Although there are very few features exclusive to either platform, Apple users almost always have access to popular Android software, but not vice versa.
Google’s Play Music All Access is similar to Spotify and Rdio, but the company aims to give users a more integrated Google experience. The iOS app won’t be ready until later this month.
