Xbox Music Trial To Be Included With Xbox One, Subscription Still Required

Earlier this week, Microsoft's head of Product Planning for the Xbox One, Albert Penello, got hopes up with a tweet stating that Microsoft would be making Xbox Music ad-supported, making it a Spotify competitor and nixing the subscription model. Unfortunately, that won't be the case after all, with the subscription model remaining, and Xbox One users getting a free trial.

Penello took back his statement in a tweet sent out this morning reading: "I was wrong on Music on XboxOne [sic]: You get 15 free song plays then need Music Pass for ad-free streaming. No ad-supported streaming. Sorry!" And there it is. The news is disappointing, as Xbox Live Gold members were gearing up for free music streaming.

Unfortunately, the trial isn't very robust, but does give gamers enough listens to decide if they like the service enough to subscribe. Streaming for Windows 8 and 8.1 and on the Web still allows for ad-supported streaming, however, which is free to use. Microsoft ended up confirming that Xbox Music will still require a pass, putting the questions to an end.

"Enjoying Xbox Music on Xbox One does require an Xbox Music Pass, similar to Xbox 360. Users will receive 15 free song plays before having to enter their Music Pass. New users can also sign up for a free 30 day trial. With a Music Pass, you have access to your personal music collection and can stream unlimited, ad-free music. You can use Xbox Music alongside other activities on Xbox One, including games, through Snap mode."

SOURCE: The Verge