Microsoft to discontinue Groove Music Pass support, asks users to migrate to Spotify

Starting this week, Groove Music Pass customers can move their curated playlists and collections directly into Spotify.

Some customers may be eligible for a 60-day free trial of Spotify Premium. (AP)

Microsoft on Monday announced that it will be discontinuing its Groove Music Pass subscription service. The company has asked its existing customers to move their playlists and music collection to Spotify.

The Groove Music app will no longer offer the option to stream, purchase, and download music after December 31.

"With the continued advancement of music streaming today, all the world's music has become easily accessible across a variety of devices, unlocking new ways to discover and experience music. As we continue to listen to what our customers want in their music experience we know that access to the best streaming service, the largest catalog of music, and a variety of subscriptions is top of the list," the company said in a blog post.

"Which is why we're excited to announce that we're expanding our partnership with Spotify to bring the world's largest music streaming service to our Groove Music Pass customers. Beginning this week*, Groove Music Pass customers can easily move all their curated playlists and collections directly into Spotify. Plus, you may be eligible for a 60-day free trial of Spotify Premium."

Microsoft introduced the service in October 2012 as Xbox Music, offering music streaming through subscription or purchase through the Windows Store.

However, the company said it would continue to update the Groove Music app on all Windows devices to support playback and management of owned music.