SoundCloud Go subscription launched in US to rival Apple Music and Spotify

SoundCloud is all set to compete with on-demand streaming services such as Apple Music, Tidal and Spotify in the US, with the Berlin-based startup announcing its music streaming platform, SoundCloud Go, at a subscription rate of US$9.99 per month.

“It’s a big day for the SoundCloud community – for both creators and listeners, newbies and those of you who’ve been with us from the beginning,” SoundCloud said in a blogpost.

“SoundCloud Go is the same SoundCloud you’ve known for years taken to the next level: with an expanded catalog of tracks that are new to the platform, new features and new functionality .”

Through the paid service, subscribers will receive added benefits to the regular operations of SoundCloud. Customers can enjoy an uninterrupted ad-free listening experience, a massive library of 125 million songs and an option to listen to music offline.

Users can also access songs by popular and established musicians along with emerging and fresh artists, the latest sound tracks and engaging podcasts, confirmed SoundCloud. It has also signed licensing agreements with companies like UMG, Sony, Merlin and Warner.

Interested customers may sign up for a free 30-day trial through the latest version of the SoundCloud Go application.

The music streaming service, which was first launched in 2007, is currently available in the US at $9.99 per month on Android whereas the charges are US$12.99 for iOS users.

Those who wish to choose the free tier of SoundCloud Go will still see ads, mentioned Alexander Ljung, co-founder and CEO at SoundCloud in an interview with Tech Crunch.