Microsoft rebranded its entertainment apps for Windows 10 with the purpose of simplicity and to avoid confusion, so “Xbox Music” is now “Groove”. The company is still diligently working out the apparent kinks until the release of their new operating system and don’t seem to be ignoring details.
At the very least, that is the case so far, as members of the Windows Insider program will be able to offer us a fuller review of Windows 10 after July 29th. Changes are still being made and updated made available to the preview, with recent renaming done to their media applications.
Keeping up with the profitable market of music streaming that is currently led by Apple Music, Microsoft has made its own move in the field. It apparently announced interest in a share and perhaps offer competition to rival companies.
However, it seemed that some users have completely ignored the Xbox Music and Xbox Video apps due to the reason that they do not own an Xbox and the name had left them confused. Microsoft has then decided to change the name to Groove for their music streaming and track listening software, perhaps a less practical, but not unpopular choice so far.
The app will be included for full review when the new Windows 10 will be released, with both the dark and light themes that are already available for those who have downloaded Microsoft’s preview of the OS.
Access to the 40 million, and growing, number of tracks will be accessible through monthly or yearly subscriptions once Windows 10 is released. The prices have been set for the United States, with $9,99 monthly fee or $99 a year, depending on preference, general use or opinion, with the mention that there will be no free trial option even for the first month.
Among other enhanced or new features, Groove will have access to Microsoft’s storage service OneDrive, that will make possible switching from one device to another while keeping the user’s music collection available. It will keep the operating system’s practicality intact if you own more than one device with media options.
Microsoft stated to have aimed toward keeping the content more “intuitive” for users through the name change as well. Though they have switched from Xbox Video to the simple “Movies and TV” which is self-explanatory, and has been justified by their wish to make apps more identifiable for every customer.
There certainly could be a reason for the conflicting statements, though many are not concerned with the catchiness or creativity of names, but more with the consequences of the change.
Some believe the change could bring uncertainty and less popularity for Groove as its name alone does not hint at any association with a major brand, while a clear distinction might have given the software more credibility when it hits the markets.
Image source: idigitaltimes.com
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