It has been reported this afternoon that Microsoft is to re-open its MSN Music download store for UK users.

The service is currently in beta and rumoured to have more than 1 million tracks in DRM-free format from all the majors, and offers preview and playlist functions. Of course the MSN music service will integrate the current MSN Music channel’s editorial content.

Users can buy credits with a credit card for £7.99 ($13.20). One credit buys one tracks and ten credits is equal to one album.

Free streaming is also part of the service, although it is currently limited to invite-only as part of a series of promotions on the MSN Web site. Reports in the summer suggested that streaming would be a key element of the new MSN digital music offering.msn music