Microsoft is getting ready to launch a new subscription-based music service on October 26 to coincide with Windows 8's release, according to a report by The Verge. Dubbed Xbox Music, the service is expected to replace Microsoft's existing Zune Pass offering and will include a free ad-supported tier similar Spotify as well as paid subscriptions that match the current pricing structure at $9.99 per month or $99.90 per year.

The service will be available on Windows Phone, Windows 8, and Xbox 360. On top of that Microsoft reportedly plans to offer Xbox Music apps on third-party platforms, including iOS and Android, as well as SkyDrive integration for users to store their music collection on the cloud and play them on any connected device.

The company is set to release an update to its Xbox 360 dashboard, as well as its Music and Video apps for Windows 8 to support the new features around the October 26 timeframe. Windows Phone 8 is also expected to debut before the end of October so all in all it's going to be a pretty busy month for the software giant.

Asked about the upcoming service, a Microsoft spokesperson gave the following statement to Cnet:

"What we can say is we're excited for Xbox Music as our definitive music service. It'll bring great new ways to enjoy, share and discover new music on all your Windows 8 devices, Xbox 360 console and Windows Phone 8. We'll let you know when we have more information to share."