It is interesting to note that you are encouraged to sign in with your Google account when you install the app - the search firm is keen both to reinforce its relationship with users and to improve its data collection.

BBC: Google, Flickr - and the app wars

If you want to live in a Google or Microsoft world, with a single sign-on to those companies' services and all of their apps, an Apple device won't cut it.

WSJ: How Apple Gets All the Good Apps

Additionally, we've learned through our conversations with the company that users may, in fact, sign in to their Google Music account from any number of devices, and it's only when a tune is deliberately streamed that your smartphone or tablet will be added to the list of ten.

ENGADGET: Google Music users granted de-authentication reprieve as company retools activation system

In May, Mr. Almunia launched settlement talks with Google, demanding the company sign up to far-reaching changes to the way it lists its own products and services in its search results and treats its advertising clients.

WSJ: Economics Guru Jumps

Last month a group filed a class-action lawsuit against PayPal alleging, among other things, that the block on Checkout is illegal. (PayPal says it will vigorously fight the suit.) In another sign that PayPal has Google on its mind, it recently launched a payments and search advertising partnership with Yahoo!

ECONOMIST: Online payments