Amazon’s voice-activated Alexa operating system, the leading voice assistance platform, introduced a new product today: the Echo Show. Echo Show joins the original Echo smart speaker, Echo Dot miniature device, and Echo Look style assistant. Amazon says it’s about “ambient computing.” Continue Reading
Amazon has reported its financial results for Q1 2017. The company’s net income for the quarter totaled $724 million. The tech giant doesn’t break out the specifics for its streaming music platforms, but those are part of the Retail Subscription Services division. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: The secret to free music is Internet radio. “Streaming Needs to Get a Lot Easier for Consumers.” Breaking up via Spotify playlist. Continue Reading
Amazon Music has updated its iOS app to add support for Apple CarPlay. This means that drivers with the in-vehicle digital dashboard can use it to access Prime Music, Music Unlimited, and their purchased or saved digital music from the retailer. Continue Reading
Amazon is expected to launch its Amazon Prime Music service in India by early 2018, according to The Economic Times. The company is in discussions with Indian record labels to acquire music rights for the eventual rollout. Continue Reading
Amazon is continuing the talent grab for its music operations. The latest hire is Kelly Rich, who will be senior label relations manager for Nashville. Continue Reading
Amazon is continuing to expand the talent pool for its music team. The latest addition is Jason Carter, who will take over a director position for a new initiative at the company. Carter joins from the BBC, where most recently served as head of live music, international, and BBC Introducing. Continue Reading
Amazon has hired Alex Luke to join its music team as global head of programming and content strategy. He will report directly to Steve Boom, Amazon Music’s vice president. Continue Reading
Billboard published its Power 100 list for 2017. The ranking includes several prominent leaders in the streaming music industry from companies including Apple Music, iHeartMedia, and Pandora. Spotify Chairman/CEO Daniel Ek took the No. 1 spot. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: Amazon launches anime channel; Shazam game show gets host. Continue Reading
Ford has announced that it will start integrating Amazon’s voice-activated Alexa system in its cars this month. Alexa is the virtual assistant popularized in Amazon’s Echo and Dot devices, and the Ford/Amazon alliance is a pointer to the future of voice-controlled car infotainment. Continue Reading
When it comes to music, news, and podcast listening, Amazon Alexa (in the Echo and Dot devices) is far less equipped than you might think from all the buzz. But the promise is that Alexa will get smarter over time, as new skills are learned. Even now, the experience is compelling. Continue Reading