Sony Ericsson to expand PlayNow music and games download service

Sony Ericsson is expanding its PlayNow mobile entertainment download service by adding millions of music tracks, expanding its games offerings, and boosting its other content such as wallpapers and ringtones.

Sony Ericsson plans to introduce the expanded PlayNow arena service in the second quarter of 2008. It will enable customers to browse, select and download content straight to their phone or via their PC.

As well as offering an expanded selection of music, Sony Ericsson will integrate the service with applications such as its mobile phone TrackID software, enabling users to identify tracks and buy them in a few clicks. Sony Ericsson will be offering free content too, and says the majority of its music catalogue will be offered in DRM-free format.

Sony Ericsson confirmed that mobile gaming will be a "key focus" within its PlayNow arena service, fuelling further speculation that a Sony Ericsson PlayStation-branded gaming phone will be launched soon, joining its Walkman-branded music mobiles and Cyber-shot cameraphone range.