REVIEW: Amazon MP3 for Android nearly flawless

Editor’s Note: Welcome to our weekly feature, Yay or Nay. Every week we’ll review a new wireless application or service from the user’s point of view, with the goal of highlighting what works and what doesn’t. If you wish to submit your application or service for review, please contact us at rcrwebhelp@crain.com.
Application: Amazon MP3 for Android
Running on: HTC G1 using T-Mobile USA’s network as well as Wi-Fi networks.
Yay: A simple way to browse and sample music. Much easier than carrier-branded music store offerings. Nice integration with online Amazon accounts. Pricing is very competitive. Songs are DRM-free.
Nay: Currently only works on one device. Limited download options.
We say: Amazon’s MP3 app is a slick way to browse and sample digital music at prices that are on par or sometimes cheaper than current models. Only a lack of being able to download tracks using a cellular connection keeps the app from being perfect.
Review: Amazon.com burst onto the music scene last year with an MP3 store that allowed users to download digital tracks that were DRM-free and at times less expensive than those from standard-setter Apple’s iTunes. With backing from music labels looking to bust Apple’s domination of the space, the service has proven compelling and is one of the most highly trafficked digital music services behind iTunes.
Thus, it was only a matter of time before the model went mobile. The offering is available on Google’s Android platform, currently installed in the recently launched HTC G1 at T-Mobile USA. The service requires only a quick tap on the G1’s screen to launch, and brings up a search screen that allows quick access to “Top 100 albums,” “Top 100 songs,” “Browse by genre” and “Search.” Songs and albums are accompanied by a picture of the album art along with the price and an option for a 30-second sample. Genres include the typical selection of “Rock” “Rap” “Classical,” etc., while the search option is just as advertised.
The music store claims millions of songs and it did appear to have an ample selection. Like most digital music offerings, virtually all recent songs are available, while more eclectic offerings are hit or miss. Songs are generally priced at 89 cents or 99 cents, with full albums priced from $5 to $15. These are typically on-par with other digital distribution services, though the DRM-free nature seems to infuse more value into the Amazon offering.
However, once a track is selected the main downside to the service rears its ugly head: full-track downloads can only be accomplished when linked to a Wi-Fi connection. Users will surely wonder why they would be able to sample a 30-second clip of a song, but not purchase it.
Despite this glaring fault, songs via Wi-Fi downloaded quickly. And unlike Verizon Wireless’ mobile music service, the Amazon offering only includes a single copy of the song – not a second one that can be downloaded directly to a personal computer. We didn’t see this as a challenge though due to the low price and lack of digital rights management protections.
Audio quality of songs seemed comparable with any other digital offering, and we were able to pass the tracks along to other devices, including an iPod, at will.
Overall, the Amazon MP3 for Android app is an excellent service that is held back only by networking requirements and a so-far dearth of compatible devices.