Google just announced Google Music, a new cloud-based streaming service that allows you to listen to your music from anywhere, provided you upload all your music to the service first.

Google Music was launched without any cooperation from major labels, so it doesn't have any tunes for you on offer. Instead, you've got to upload your own music to its storage locker, and then Google will stream it to you wherever you are. The company's going to be adding a music store in the future, but for now you've gotta bring your own music.

It's an interesting idea, but one that feels pretty half-baked. Why wouldn't I just move my files to my phone if I have to download them already? Instead of moving your files to your phone or tablet, you're moving them to the cloud, which will take far longer to upload. Without a built-in library in the cloud, it seems like it gives you more work to do instead of less, which should be the benefit. But in any case, if you're interested you can sign up for a beta slot now to give it a shot.

Via Google Music