Apple has released a developer version of its iTunes Match service.
The beta is open to U.S.-based developers. Those who purchase a 12-month subscription for $24.99 will get access to the iTunes Match beta, plus three additional months free, according to a screen shot of an email posted by MacRumors.
To test it out, download the most recent version of iOS 5 beta and iTunes 10.5 beta 6.1 with iTunes Match. Then, select "Turn on iTunes Match" from the Store menu and click subscribe.
Apple warned users to keep a local backup of your iTunes library, as well as music added to iCloud. "Apple will periodically reset your iCloud library during the beta and it is critical that you backup your music regularly," the email said. "Some features and optimizations of iTunes Match will not be available during the beta."
With iTunes Match, users can store their entire music library in the cloud, or iCloud, for on-the-go access to your music from any iOS device or computer.
The full iTunes Match and Apple iCloud services won't be live until the fall, but a portion of iTunes in the Cloud went live in June during Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC). Those with AT&T iPhones, iOS 4.3 devices like iPads and iPod touches, as well as computers with iTunes 10.3 were given access to an iTunes in the Cloud Beta. For more, see PCMag's hands on and the slideshow below.
Earlier this month, the Web site for Apple's iCloud went live for developers, and with it came some more details about pricing for Cupertino's cloud service. Apple iCloud users get 5GB of free storage, but upgrades are available: an additional 10GB will run you $20 per year, while 20GB will cost $40 per year and 50GB will be $100.