In a step considered to be part of its strategy to explore VAS opportunities as well, leading handset manufacturer, Nokia announced the launch of ‘Comes with Music offering’ in UK. The move is believed to be taken as a measure to check the growth of Apple’s iTunes.

Initially the service will be introduced in Britain by October followed by other markets across the globe. Also as part of its launch offer in Britain, customers buying new Nokia 5310 XpressMusic device will have free access to the services for one year. During this period, such customers can download as many content as possible.

"Sharing music becomes legal, and you can start to build the offering into a social network," said Tero Ojanperä, executive vice-president and head of the Nokia Entertainment & Communities business.

The company is presently offering the service in tie-up with retailers but intends to form alliance with operators as well.

The pricing details of the service remain unclear as of now.