All four major record labels (Universal Music, Sony BMG, EMI and Warner Music) have signed a deal with flash disk makers SanDisk in hopes of selling flash memory cards compatible with most new mobile phones models, digital music players and car stereos (all you need is a micro-SD slot or a computer/car stereo with a USB port). Meant as an alternative to CDs and downloads, the cards are expected to hit a few American stores such as Wal-Mart by Christmas.

Prices, artists, and more are still to be decided. slotMusic cards will include such bonus content as liner notes, album artwork and even video clips.

“There is a segment of the market that can use a solution that can combine the benefits of both digital and physical medium,” says Rio Caraeff, executive vice president of Universal’s digital division, in an interview with the LA Times.

Mike McGuire, an analyst at the research firm Gartner Inc., isn’t so sure. He said: “For a lot of people who have been online for a while, it’s going to be a hard sell.”

Another big downside? The flash disks wont work on iPods.

Tags | cd, download, EMI, flash disk, sandisk, slotmusic, sony bmg, universal music, warner music