MUMBAI: The recent lay-off by Microsoft, which includes 12,500 employees from Nokia Devices and Services unit, has raised many questions. But the one related to MixRadio has been addressed by MixRadio boss Jyrki Rosenberg in an interview with Stuart Dredge.
"Basically, we're planning a spin-off," revealed Rosenberg. The company is keeping a low profile after the decision for the cut-off was announced.
He further added, "Microsoft is going to focus on developing and maintaining the best operating system for consumers to use music and entertainment with their choice of third-party applications."
"Microsoft and MixRadio will maintain strong links," Rosenberg stated. It will continue to preload its app on Windows Phone smartphones.He also revealed that the company is currently meeting with potential investors from around the world. "We have very strong interest from investors in the US, Europe and Asia, and we remain open for further discussions," he said.
MixRadio allows free streaming of playlists without any subscriptions or ads. Users can upgrade to Nokia MixRadio+ for $3.99 a month, this allows users to view lyrics, skips songs and download playlists. Its competition will come from on-demand streaming services like Spotify, Deezer and Rhapsody/Napster.
The streaming service has, in the past, changed its name a number of times. It finally changed its name to ‘MixRadio' on 1 July this year after Microsoft acquired Nokia.