BigPond offers MP3 downloads

Music lovers can now buy MP3 music downloads from an Australian online music store after BigPond reached an agreement with major record labels.

The format is compatible with all standard music players and a wide range of home media centres.

"BigPond now gives iPod users an alternative place to purchase their favourite music in a format that will work on their player. And if they are BigPond customers they will save money on the tracks and download them free of data charges," says BigPond Group Managing Director, Justin Milne.

"We're changing the online music game by creating a truly open world that puts consumers in the driving seat," he said.

The music on offer will come from Sony BMG, Universal Music, Warner Music and EMI, as well as leading Australian independent record labels and distributors including MGM, Inertia, Liberation, IODA, and AmpHead.

"BigPond's MP3 catalogue makes it simpler for people to purchase their music online whether it is on their BigPond bill, credit card or using one of our BigPond Music Pre-Paid cards," Mr Milne said.

Universal Music Australia Managing Director, George Ash, said: "Universal Music Australia is excited to be working in partnership with BigPond Music. We look forward to working with them in the future, and the creation of many more ground-breaking, consumer focused campaigns."

BigPond was the first company to launch an Australian music download store and says it offers the most comprehensive range of digital music services in Australia.