SanDisk has inked a deal to distribute music on its Flash memory cards.

The firm announced a partnership with music labels EMI, Sony BMG, Universal and Warner to launch a new distribution system known as SlotMusic which will place albums on microSD memory cards.

The cards can be played on all PCs, handsets and smartphones equipped with microSD card readers. The cards will also be sold with a small USB sleeve which will allow for a connection to PCs that lack a microSD reader.

The music itself will be distributed as 320Kbps DRM-free MP3 tracks. In addition to audio albums, the cards will sport liner notes and album art.

Initially, the cards will be released in US Wal-Mart and Best Buy retail stores as well as online. The companies hope to have a line of Slotmusic albums released by the holiday season.

A release in Europe has been promised as well, although no dates were given.

The companies hope that the new format will appeal to users who wish to listen to music on their handsets without requiring an internet connection or pre-loading on a computer, the hallmarks of current music services such as iTunes and Rhapsody.