EA Trax songs available on iTunes

Game music heads for the iPod.

Music tracks from top selling Electronic Arts computer games are to be made available on iTunes.

The new deal between EA and Apple strengthens an existing relationship between the two companies under which it was proposed that EA would develop games for Apple's forthcoming iPhone.

EA is well known in the gaming industry for its EA Trax in-game music system which uses exclusive mixes and non-album tracks from major bands and artists, along with more traditional scores and themes.

These artists include Fall Out Boy, All American Rejects, Franz Ferdinand, The Ramones, Jimmy Eat World and Yellowcard.

"As our culture goes increasingly mobile, music fans have demanded to take our game music with them," said Steve Schnur, worldwide executive of music and marketing at EA.

"Our game soundtracks have now officially transcended their consoles. If it's in the game, it's now available for fans to own. We consider this to be the next major step in evolving the music discovery experience."

EA will continue to add songs, scores, themes, beats and ring-tones from popular EA game franchises, including hits such as NBA Live, Fifa Soccer, Command and Conquer, Medal of Honour, Nascar, SSX and Battlefield.

The songs are live in North America today and will be available soon throughout Europe.