Google is Testing “Listen Now” Links with Music Searches
It’s not happening everywhere and it’s not happening with every music search, but some people have noted that when they Google information on an artist or group, something new appears in the box on the right side of the search results. It says “Listen Now.” Clicking on it will take you to Google Play (naturally) or Rhapsody or Beats Music (what?). Depending on the choice you make, you can either pay for a download or stream it. In the latter case, you’ll be offered a free trial for a fast sign-up.
Handy, yes. And record labels and rightsholders will appreciate that Google is direct people to legitimate sources for this copyrighted material. However, Google will have to be careful to ensure that there’s no perception that links are tilted towards their music services and not the competition.
The whole “Listen Now” initiative is still in a very experimental stage, so if you notice something like this coming up during one of your music searches, let me know, okay?
(Via Smyrna Times)
