In a move that surprised many, Virgin has shut down Virgin Digital, which is a Windows Media-based iTunes-like clone. Subscribers will still have access to purchased tracks, but only until the end of the month, September 28 to be exact. It may be coincidence, which I don’t think it is, but that is also the iPod Touch’s launch date for the UK.
There isn’t even a reason for the shutdown other than an apology from Virgin to its customers. VD subscribers in the US are being directed towards Napster who will honor VD pre-pay cards and vouchers. Subscribers in the UK will receive a free month of Virgin’s upcoming media music streaming service. Make sure you burn your library before it disappears altogether on October 19.
Virgin unplugs music download service [The Reg]