Dell has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire privately-held ZING Systems Inc., a consumer technology and services company that focuses on always-connected audio and entertainment devices.

Zing offers a service that helps people find new music and share playlists using audio streaming technology and counts SanDisk in its client list.

The statement reads: "In a move that reflects the renewed interest and energy being directed at its consumer business, Dell plans to use ZING and its capabilities to continue improving the entertainment experiences it provides its customers".

This is being seen as a possible sign that Dell plans to move back in to the MP3 music market. The company stopped producing its Creative-manufactured "DJ" range of MP3 players last year.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, and the purchase will not be final until all closing conditions are met.