Spotify US launch imminent after streaming service signs deal with Universal

It looks as though our friends across the pond are about to receive an early Christmas present, as rumour suggests music streaming service Spotify is poised to finally launch in the US. This follows word that the new media company has managed to sign a deal with Universal music.

Spotify has reportedly had EMI and Sony on its side since 2010, and the addition of Universal means it’s just one major record label away from having a full deck. Warner Music Group – the final piece of the puzzle –  is, according to inside sources, not too far off from joining the party.

Having all four major US labels on board would allow Spotify to launch a comprehensive offering in the US without having any major artists missing. The need to do so will be greater now than ever before; Spotify’s not managed to turn a profit yet, and with iTunes Match, Google music Beta and Amazon Cloud Drive all in operation (or soon to be), Spotify needs to act fast to earn a place on US computers.

Do you think the pioneering streamer can make it across the pond? Let us know your thoughts on the Gadget Helpline Twitter feed.