MUMBAI: Napster has launched a web-based version of its digital music service that, for the first time, allows users to listen to songs without having to download special software.

The service works on newer versions of Internet Explorer and Firefox, which means the service can now work on most internet-enabled devices, including those running on Linux and OS X, say reports. Previously, users needed applications written for Windows, some handheld media players and a handful of other mobile devices.

The new service also makes it easier to integrate Napster into social networking destinations and other types of websites. Users who prefer to have more advanced functionality, such as the ability to burn CDs, will still have to use Napster`s client software, which is available only for Windows PCs.

The new service seems aimed at preparing for a day when Apple unshackles its offerings from onerous digital rights management (DRM) technology, which makes it impossible to play songs on anything other than an iTunes or an iPod.