Though Google could have very well surprised us with the announcement of an MP3 store alongside their flashy new OS, Ice Cream Sandwich, we did not see the long-rumored digital media hub’s debut. Catching up with Andy Rubin at the AsiaD conference, the Google exec flat-out confirmed new rumors that the launch of such a store is not far off. He said we could see Google’s digital download store “very soon” and it will bring with it a “little twist.” Previous attempts to get the store up and running alongside Google Music faltered after record labels refused to play ball with Google’s suggested retail model. Rubin seems more confident than ever in their ability to ink deals at this point, with only the finishing touch left to go. Admittedly such a venture might never compete head-to-head with Apple and iTunes, but it will offer a nice alternative — especially for Android users.
[via Engadget]