Chinese music industry groups file suit against Baidu

Two industry groups representing China's local musicians and songwriters have filed a lawsuit against the country's Web search leader, Baidu.com Inc, accusing it of copyright violation. The move signaled that domestic artists as well as international firms are disgruntled at the firm's free music search service. "This lawsuit is just the beginning," the statement quoted Music Copyright Society executive Qu Jingming of China as saying. (Reuters)

Google Elbows Into China With Free Music

In an effort to boost its market share in China, Google (Nasdaq: GOOG) Latest News about Google is reportedly in the final stages of a deal with Universal Music Group that would enable the Internet search giant to provide free music downloads to Chinese users. Citing sources close to the negotiations, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that two other global music labels -- EMI and Sony BMG -- are also being courted by Google and venture partner Top100.cn, an online music retailer out of Beijing. Warner Bros. Latest News about Warner Bros. is also said to have indicated its interest in the project. (eCommerce Times)

Google to launch music service in China

Google is preparing to extend its range of music-related services by launching a free, legal music search service in China, according to reports, as the web goliath attempts to increase its share of a market dominated by the domestic search portal Baidu.com. (The Guardian, Silicon Alley Insider, Billboard)

Music Companies Sue China's Baidu, Sohu

Music companies have started a new fight with China's Internet industry over piracy, filing lawsuits accusing popular Web sites Baidu.com and Sohu.com of aiding illicit online copying, the IFPI said Wednesday. (AP)