Apple Close to Launching iRadio Streaming Service

Source: mashable

In the days leading up to Apple's big Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), the company has reportedly reached a key licensing deal for its rumored Internet radio service, iRadio.

CNET is reporting Apple has finalized negotiations with Warner Music Group and its publishing arm, Warner/Chappell Music. The news comes one month after the company reached another deal with Universal Music. Talks are still underway with Sony, according to the report.

The New York Times also said iRadio is nearing its launch date.

iRadio is expected to be an Internet music streaming service similar to Pandora, with both a free service supported by advertising and a paid service without ads. Apple has worked on the concept since last summer, but has had challenges dealing with music labels and publishers over licensing fees.

iRadio is expected to debut on June 10 at the WWDC in San Francisco