The Infinite Dial 2020 broke out trends in hardware ownership. Many types of audio are closely tied to particular devices, so understanding how and where people are listening helps create a clearer picture of the current market. An estimated 76 million people in the U.S. own a smart speaker. That 27% share is up from 23% in 2019 and 18% in 2018. Continue Reading
AM/FM radio continued to hold a marked lead for in-car listening in the Infinite Dial 2020. In the words of Triton Digital’s John Rosso: “AM/FM radio continues to dominate.” Although it remains the most-used audio source, growth is also happening for other formats behind the wheel. Continue Reading
We’ve seen lots of research exploring the burst of interest in podcasts. The Infinite Dial 2020 results shows just how much the audio format is growing in popularity in the U.S. The monthly podcast consumer group grew 16% from the previous year, and 2020 marks the first time that audience surpassed 100 million Americans. Continue Reading
Account-sharing has been a concern for the music and streaming industry, and there have been several attempts to quantify how common the practice is. A survey by financial company Rankrate found that 42% of all U.S. adults have used someone else’s account to access a subscription service. Continue Reading
BPI, the British music industry group, released its 2019 trade income report. The results reflect the income generated by record labels during the year. Thanks to annual growth of 7.3%, record label trade income reached nearly £1.07 billion. Continue Reading
Australia-based podcast tech company Whooshkaa is announcing what is calls “free Professional podcast packages for schools from kindergarten to year 12, across Australia and right around the world.” A partnership with microphone maker RODE aims to create total solutions including hardware, software, and distribution. The idea is to keep teachers connected with students and parents in what might be called an era of quarantine. Continue Reading
by Steve Goldstein
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to keep people at home and isolated. Steve offers his insight on how the current crisis will impact podcast listening, and how podcasts can stand out in a time where people are lacking connection. Continue Reading
Most of the world is staying home. That shift toward serious social distancing began with hoarding of toilet paper and hand sanitizer. But once people settle into new routines for the coming weeks, the media world can expect to see some big changes in how and when their works are consumed. Continue Reading
MusicWatch has released its Annual Music Study, a survey of U.S. music consumption. The report offers a positive snapshot about the industry’s growth, with streaming playing a key role in the results. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: “Alexa, what is coronavirus?” Get your classical concert fix in isolation. And don’t despair, indie artists. Continue Reading
London-based audio platform Broccoli Content has hired Tony Phillips as its chief content officer. Phillips has past experience as former vice president for on-demand content at WNYC Studios and commissioning editor for BBC Radio 4 and the BBC World Service. Continue Reading
Pineapple Street Studios is launching a new project for podcasting during the coronavirus pandemic. The Stuck At Home campaign aims to get kids into podcasting, and to help them safely connect with other kids during the health crisis. Continue Reading