Apple Might Be Creating A Social Network Within Its Streaming Service

Apple Inc. AAPL upcoming Beats streaming music service will have "deep social networking integration for artists," 9to5Mac reports. The solution will be similar to Ping, a discontinued iTunes feature.

The social service will allow iTunes users to comment on and like artist posts and pages, according to the rumors. However, unlike Ping, only artists, not individuals, would be able to create profiles. Artists could also cross promote albums, where artists show followers what they are listening to.

Apple is also looking to "strike exclusive deals and partnerships with top music acts," AppleInsider added. The streaming service could also be part of a rebranded Beats Music, which may launch in the near future.

Apple first discontinued Ping in September 2012, exactly two years after it first launched. The service mainly allowed users to see what music friends were purchasing and reviewing. The company replaced Ping with Facebook and Twitter integration in iTunes.

Apple is reportedly launching the streaming service at its June developer conference. Re/code recently reported that the service may include a three-month free trial and a SoundCloud-type service where artists could upload free music to followers. However, the company will not launch a free version that could compete with Spotify or Pandora Media Inc P.

Apple stock is higher by 15 percent year-to-date.