Apple emerged as the biggest threat to the biggest music streaming services including Spotify, Beatport and Jay Z's TIDAL with Apple Music.
During the announcement at WWDC (World Wide Developers Conference), Apple introduced Apple Music, that will also offer downloads and Internet radio, as well as Apple Pay UK and iOS 9.
“We love music, and the new Apple Music service puts an incredible experience at every fan's fingertips,” said Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Internet Software and Services. “All the ways people love enjoying music come together in one app — a revolutionary streaming service, live worldwide radio and an exciting way for fans to connect with artists.”
Forrester analyst James McQuivey said Apple is arriving late to the music streaming business, due in part to Steve Jobs' refusal to believe that music subscription services would ever work. “But the writing is on the wall: digital downloads don't make sense for consumers that are connected wherever they go,” McQuivey added.
The service will be available June 30th and will cost $9.99 a month per person or a premium price of $14.99 for a family plan of up to six individuals, with a three-month free trial. For the latter category, iCloud Family Sharing will need to be activated. The star-studded event also introduced its new family members of iTunes Radio with artists like Drake, Dr. Dre, will.i.am, Pharrell, BBC's Zane Lowe and Jimmy Iovine.
“Apple Music is really going to move the needle for fans and artists,” said Jimmy Iovine, the founder of Beats. “Online music has become a complicated mess of apps, services, and websites. Apple Music brings the be st features together for an experience every music lover will appreciate.” BeatsOne, their first station will be anchored Zane Lowe, Ebro Darden, and Julie Adenuga.
One of the most talked about moments was when Drake came on stage to reveal a new feature ‘Connect' including news of his upcoming album, which will hopefully if not definitely be released via Apple Music.
“The dream of being a new artist like myself five years ago and connecting directly with an audience has never been more close or reachable,” Drake said.
“One of the problems faced when an artist starts out was getting attention and the message about music out. Connect could address that for a new age of artists, he suggested, by allowing them to sell not only their musical efforts but the ethos behind their music too.
Instead of having to post your stuff on these different and sometimes confusing places, it's all in one place: Connect.”
Following Drake on stage, The Weeknd performed his new track “Can't Feel My Face.”
The new feature called Connect will let artists upload music, photos, and messages directly with their fans. Even Siri is cooler with Connect. You can ask Siri to play any track from any era or playlist. Stay tuned for more updates.
