Here Are Some Updates About YouTube’s Delayed Music Service

When we last checked in with YouTube’s streaming music service, it was slotted for a release around December or January. It’s now April, and since the service still hasn’t arrived, potential users are looking for the source of the delay. According to report by Billboard, YouTube is taking its time to ensure the music service is a worthwhile Spotify competitor and is therefore pushing back release at least a couple more months.

In a report published on April 3rd, Billboard explained the three potential problems YouTube wants to tackle before releasing the music service to the public. Specifically, the app’s developers need to find a way to integrate existing music videos into the new service while also creating a premium level that provides improved access to paying customers.

YouTube’s brain trust must also figure out what to do with music offerings that

don’t come with an official video. Execs want the app to have a video component that will set it apart from the competition, and it is reportedly leaning toward implementing slide shows for video-less songs.

Billboard’s article notes that the decision to iron out these kinks before release is a distinct departure for Google, which typically launches beta versions of its products years before officially releasing them. This time, however, the site wants to make a splash from launch. “They feel that there’s just too much scrutiny of this product, and that they need to get it right out of the gate,” said a source close to the app’s development.

At this point, there’s no specific release date set, but current whispers claim the app will be out sometime around Q3 2014.