Google gearing up for music service push

Google Inc is expected to roll out a music download service tied to its search engine later this year, followed by a "cloud"-based subscription service in 2011, according to people familiar with the Internet giant's discussions with the music industry.

Google hasn't made any specific proposals yet, but the nature of discussions with music companies suggest the Internet giant is likely to roll out its music services in two phases, said people who have been briefed on the talks. The launch of Google's download music store is still months away, they said.

The discussions come as the Mountain View, Calif.-based search giant looks to push deeper into entertainment content. Google is also moving to add professional content on its YouTube video site, and it is planning to roll out a digital bookstore this year.

The launch of a Google music store would heighten tensions with Apple Inc., whose iTunes store is the leading U.S. digital music seller. It also recently began selling digital books.

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