Now That's What I Call Streaming … Major labels plan cut-rate hits feed

Universal and Sony plan app streaming playlists of hits for 4.99 a month to plug gap between free, ad-based services and premium subscriptions

Two major record labels are rolling out a low-priced UK music streaming service under the Now That's What I Call Music brand, previously best known for its long-running compilation album series.

Now That's What I Call Music, a joint venture between Universal Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment, is reportedly finalising a streaming app called Now Music+ that will offer playlists of hit songs for 4.99 a month, or 5.99 if purchased in Apple's App Store.