Samsung is closing the e-book and music sections of Samsung Hub

Just like HTC with its doomed movie service, Samsung is apparently starting to realize that its in-house efforts can’t compete with specialist alternatives. While Spotify has been busily publicizing its rapid growth, the Korean manufacturer has been quietly warning Galaxy phone and tablet owners about the impending closure of its similar, own-brand Music Hub. Users can no longer sign up for the premium monthly subscription option, and a message inside the app says they’ll need to re-download any purchased tracks and use up any vouchers before the entire service shuts down on July 1st. 

Samsung is discontinuing service for it’s Samsung Hub e-book and music services on its devices for most of the world, effective July 1. Seeking “service differentiation and customer value enhancement,” the reduced Samsung Hub service will be limited to education, video, and gaming venues. The service was launched alongside the Galaxy SIII phone, and was touted as a feature of the device. The service was not loaded onto the Galaxy S5. Powered by Samsung acquisition mSpot, the music service was also through a browser-based app, and on up to five devices. Samsung’s South Korean customers will not see the service closed, as the company holds a commanding lead in the country. Additionally, Samsung’s US-centric “Milk” music streaming service will remain open.