T-Mobile to offer songs-as-you-go

T-Mobile is to offer special 'mobile mix' versions of popular songs for those who just can't do without their music.

The mobile operator has done a deal with Sony and Vivendi for special versions of songs, starting with 'Left Outside Alone' by Anastacia. Other artists in the initial offering include Beyonce, Limp Bizkit and Lionel Richie.

The 200 remixes - which are shortened versions - will initially be available in the Austria, Germany and the UK. T-Mobile has ambitions to do the same in the US. The company hopes music enthusiasts will use the service to get a preview of coming singles.

Cost may be a problem. A download will be £2.50 in the UK and only €2.50 in Germany. Users will need a Nokia handset and tracks will only last for 90 seconds to two minutes.

But the companies involved - eager to boost airtime usage and address falling music sales - are comforting themselves with the fact that ringtones alone are a £3-5bn business worldwide.