Apps, Mobile & SMS

The Week in Review From Digital Music News

  • Infinity revealed a mobile-based radio broadcasting strategy this week, joining rival Clear Channel. A target date of mid-2006 was discussed.
  • Britain successfully combined its download and CD-single charts, with both formats approaching 400,000 units weekly. The BPI pointed to heavy representation from independent artists, part of an effort to downplay concerns over indie inclusion from groups like the Association of Independent Music (AIM).
  • In the satellite radio space, Sirius announced a new deal with Martha Stewart, with the homemaking diva grabbing a $30 million guarantee.
  • In the music destination arena, AOL struck video licensing arrangements with both Universal Music and Warner Music, opening up access to tens of thousands of major label videos.
  • Meanwhile, RealNetworks started to build the story on paid subscription services, announcing its one millionth subscriber.
  • And sales of pre-recorded CDs continued to lag behind 2004 levels, with the gap now crossing 10%. That adds to a tough climate for an upcoming Warner Music IPO, with the company preparing to offer 32.6 million shares within the price range of $22-$26.

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