The first episode of Carpool Karaoke: The Series aired on Apple Music this week. The show’s debut demonstrates an ongoing shift in Apple’s aspirations and in what the company’s place in the entertainment world will be. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: Audiobooks versus podcasts; Rap Caviar gets video; happy birthday to 8tracks! Continue Reading
Short-form podcasting app Anchor has added a new feature designed for posting audio to social networks. The mobile app has added a tool to create a video clip with transcriptions of the audio playing. Those videos can be shared to platforms including Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: New chapters in the licensing database saga; Apple’s original programming begins with Carpool Karaoke; iHeartRadio’s latest in-car collaboration; Spotify Xbox app reportedly in the works. Continue Reading
Facebook’s possible plans for music content continue to take hazy shape as the company assembles tech and talent in that space. The latest development is the acquisition of Source3, a startup that specializes in “analyzing branded intellectual property in user-generated content.” The Source3 team and the company’s technology will be incorporated into Facebook’s ranks. Continue Reading
Video platform Vimeo has announced that Anjali Sud will be its new CEO. Her previous role with the company was general manager and senior vice president of the creator business. She replaces Kerry Trainor, who departed as CEO more than a year ago. Continue Reading
PodcastOne has launched a new mobile app that includes interactive features in social and video alongside its audio programming. Listeners can tune into their shows and engage with them in new ways, such as viewing behind-the-scenes photos, taking polls, and messaging other fans. The app also introduces a virtual currency for its loyalty program. Continue Reading
Vevo has expanded its shared viewing feature with a live component. The video company rolled out Watch Party in March, allowing multiple people to watch the same clip across multiple computers. The new development is Watch Party Live, which adds a real-time broadcast component for artists to interact with their fans. Continue Reading
Today marks the start of VidCon, the online video convention that brings together creators, industry representations, and fans of the still-exploding media format. The event is usually a chance for YouTube to announce new features or new statistics, and this year it has done both. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: A deep dive into composing podcast music. A year of Apple Music for $99. Apple hires Breaking Bad duo. Continue Reading
Audio publishing platform Omny Studio announced an option for video pre-roll ads in web-based listening. The new feature is the result of a collaboration with Macquarie Media. It offers a new revenue stream option for podcasters, who are usually limited to audio ad inventory on their shows. Continue Reading
Social video app Musical.ly is now creating original shows. The platform emphasizes user creativity, and has become a hub for lip syncing and other fan music videos. The planned episodes will run just two to four minutes and will feature content from NBC, MTV, and Hearst. Original content has become a core marketing promise for companies across the entertainment and media landscapes. Continue Reading