Pandora Locks Out 5 Million Users In Australia, New Zealand

Pandora has exited the Australia and New Zealand markets leaving 5 million users without the service. While the move was expected as the music streamer works toward profitability it leaves a big whole in a significant market that has a long history of failed streaming services.

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Pandora has closed the accounts of all 5 million users in Australia and New Zealand as it exits the region. Users will be given refunds as the struggling music streamer refocuses on the American market.

"After analysis and consideration of external factors, we have decided to discontinue our operations in Australia and New Zealand and will shut down the service on July 31, 2017," Panora announced to users. "We’re honored to have connected so many Pandora listeners around the world with the music they love. "

The move comes after Pandora sold Ticketfly to Eventbrite at a $200 million loss for $200 million, and received a $480 million investment in SiriusXM.Pandora joins Rdio, Guvera, JB Hi-Fi Now, Milk Music, Nokia MixRadio and Rara, all of which failed to gain sufficient traction in Australia. iHeart Radio, Apple Music and Spotify are each making inroads in the market.