In a clear indication of how the music world will progress from beyond iPods, Slacker has launched a fantastic new service cum player. The service is basically a internet radio station (can be tuned into free of cost but has commercials). for $7.50 a month, you could skip the ads and get just the music. Slacker will go on to have about a 100 stations, what makes it differnt is the superb new music player that promises to go on sale within a few months. The hardware is a flash player that costs around $150 for a 2 GB model. According to Slacker, other prices will probably be $200 (4GB), $300 8GB, and $400 (12GB).

The hardware player will be able to tune into the radio stations from anywhere on the planet, using a Wi-Fi zone when it can log into one in the area or using satellite connection. If you like the song then hit a button and it gets saved for $1 per song. The service and player makes sense for those who do not have time to download / buy and load songs on to their devices. This one makes it extremely easy.

More details on Slacker where you can sign up for a free account and tune in for a demo.