Lime Wire LLC, maker of the popular LimeWire peer to peer network software, announced that it will open a digital music store.

Initially the store will be a stand-alone website, also accessible from links in the file-sharing software. Subsequent releases will enable users to browse and purchase music directly from within the LimeWire program. The first partners in the new digital channel are IRIS Distribution and Nettwerk Productions. These companies have signed deals with Lime Wire to provide music from their extensive catalogs. Lime Wire is banking on the popularity of peer to peer networks in marketing their new concept. 

Songs in the LimeWire Store will be sold in the universally compatible MP3 format. Customers will be able to buy songs and albums “a la carte” or as part of monthly subscription plans.