Apple is negotiating with record companies for a system that would allow users to access music downloaded from the App Store on an unlimited number of iOS devices, according to a report from Bloomberg.
Under the plan, users could download music and then access it on various Apple products like the iPhone, iPod, or iPad. It would also provide users with permanent, cloud-based backup of their music.
Talk of Apple unveiling a cloud-based music has been swirling since Cupertino purchased online music service Lala in December 2009. By June 2010, however, Apple shut down Lala, and the company has made no announcements regarding a cloud service.
This "unlimited" download option could be announced by mid-year, Bloomberg said.
Last week, Apple reportedly removed its $99 cloud-based MobileMe product from its online store. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Apple is planning an overhaul of MobileMe in favor of a free service. MobileMe would "serve as a 'locker' for personal memorabilia such as photos, music, and videos."
Last month, Apple also announced a subscription billing platform for the App Store, which lets customers purchase subscriptions to iOS-supported newspapers, magazines, music, and other content in one click. Previously, customers had to manually purchase and download issues on an individual basis.