Apple Music to launch in end June with Ping-like social network for artists?

Apple Music to launch in end June with Ping-like social network for artists?

Apple's upcoming music streaming service is said to have an official name and will feature extensive social networking integration for artists.

According to 9to5Mac, industry sources claim that Apple will name its streaming service as "Apple Music". In addition, Apple Music will feature deep social networking integration for artists similar in concept to the discontinued iTunes Ping feature.

Artists are allowed to have their own pages within Apple Music where they can post samples of their songs, photos, videos and concert updates. They can also cross-promote other artists by sharing their content. Users of Apple Music can comment and like these posts via their iTunes accounts.

Industry sources also told 9to5Mac that Apple Music will be integrated into the redesigned iOS 8.4 Music app while iTunes Match and iTunes Radio will be retained. While Billboard reported last week that the new service might not be released in June, Apple is said to release it along with a free trial towards the end of next month.

Source: 9to5Mac