Internet portal Lycos Inc has launched a search engine it claims will be the largest index to MP3-format music on the internet. Waltham, Massachusetts-based Lycos will team up with Norwegian company Fast Search and Transfer ASA, which operates the largest online MP3 database. Lycos is the latest in a list of big names to throw their support behind the controversial MP3 format. Mixed reports on Friday suggested Sony Music Entertainment of Japan was considering allowing listeners to download music from the internet, before this was denied by the Sony in the US. Wayne, New Jersey-based internet audio developer Audible Inc has also announced that the next version of the Palm-sized PC will have support for its internet audio service. This could effectively turn the Palm-sized PC into an MP3 ‘walkman’, much like Diamond Multimedia’s Rio device, which has been accused of simplifying piracy. Lycos’ search engine will not be able to distinguish between legal and pirated music, a situation sure to add fuel to the MP3 debate.
á
