Microsoft formally introduces the Xbox Music Pass

Microsoft has fired out an email introducing consumers to the Xbox Music Pass, which was previously branded the Zune Pass. The subscription model opens up an impressive catalogue of music that's available for streaming, download and purchase (should one wish to cancel the subscription but retain music tracks). We've previously expected the company to launch the rebranded streaming service as successor.

Paving way for the future, the Xbox Music Pass will work on Windows Phone, Windows 8 and the Xbox video game console (only streaming is supported on the console). Consumers are able to add up to 5 devices at any one time, and only two may be removed every 30 days. This limit is more than enough for the average user, but has leeway for those who have multiple desktops, laptops and phones.

For $9.99 it's well worth the investment. The service is pretty expansive and has room for improvement. So in case you've been hiding away, Xbox Music and the Xbox Music Pass is what we're dealing with now.

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.