Microsoft has finally launched their MSN Music Downloads service, which was originally set for a beta rollout back in July this year, before issues were raised and set back development.

Major music labels EMI, Warner Music Group, Universal Music Group and Sony BMG are in on the service, totaling some one million tracks available for download on launch. Pricing comes in at an average of 79p (GBP) per track, but the purchasing system is... different to say the least. Customers in fact purchase credits at 10 credits for £7.99, at the moment prices set as 1 credit for 1 track, 10 for an album.

Tracks are encoded to 192 kbps and are available in MP3 and WMA formats without DRM protection. Microsoft say that they also have plans to offer tracks streamed via a service similar to Spotify, allowing for easier access via mobile devices connected to the internet.

"As part of the service, free music streaming will be tested on a limited basis. MSN will be running a series of promotions on the MSN website enabling a limited number of users to gain access to this aspect of the beta." said a Microsoft spokesperson.