Sony-Ericsson mulling music service

Not to be outdone by rival Nokia's mobile music plans, Sony-Ericsson is planning to introduce a similar wireless music download service later this year. Initial reports are that it will extend the PlayNow ringtone and mobile game service include full songs. Ericsson already provides the backend technology that lets carriers power their own download music services, and the joint venture has been popping out Walkman-branded music phones like guppies. Meanwhile, partner Sony owns a chunk of the music label Sony BMG and also operates the Sony Connect digital media distribution service.

There's great opportunity here, yes. But it's no slam dunk. In particular, Sony has managed to blow every digital entertainment initiative it's ever attempted outside of the PlayStation--from failed devices to the still-struggling Connect service--mainly due to a silly insistence on using proprietary technology that nobody seems to want. If done right, though, it could help the Walkman portable music brand find its way back into the mainstream.

For more details on the expected service:
- read the WSJ's article  (sub. req.)

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