by , 9:45 AM EST, December 5th, 2005

RealNetworks is adding a web-based version of its Rhapsody music subscription service that won't require a special application to use, according to USA TODAY. The web-based version works through a web browser, so Mac and Linux users will finally be able to use the service, at least in a limited way.

The service, which is now running in a test phase, lets users stream music. Downloading music still requires the Windows only Rhapsody application. Users can listen to 25 songs per month for free, and an unlimited number of songs for US9.99 a month. In comparison, the iTunes Music Store lets users download songs for $0.99 a piece, and they can listen to them an unlimited number of times, as well as burn them to CD, or copy them to an iPod.

The Rhapsody service has previously been available only to Windows users.

RealNetworks is offering a $59.99 a year RadioPass service uses the RealPlayer application, and gives subscribers access to 90 ad-free music stations.