Nokia Corp has launched free legal music download services for handset users in China to tap into the booming mobile service sector and boost sales in the world's biggest mobile phone market, the world's No. 1 phone vendor said yesterday in Beijing.

It is the first major device vendor to launch a music service for China's huge number of mobile users.

Apple Inc, which launched its iPad in the United States at the weekend, hasn't provided iTunes Store services in China though it launched the iPhone here last October.

Through Nokia's "Comes with Music" service, the company is offering music from major labels and local partners, including Universal Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment, to allow users to download free tracks to handsets or personal computers.

Initially, the service will be available on eight Nokia devices including the X6, 5800w and 5230.