A Few Thoughts On Apple Music
June 15, 2015•494 words
Apple just announced their foray into streaming music and how they are going
to leverage the Beats acquisition. Honestly, it was nothing special. Apple
wrapped up some features that nobody wants or ever asked for and tried to
convince us that we need them, and we need them right away. They made a huge
push for their artist connect feature where artists can post updates, and you
can comment on things and share. They also have these new radio stations and
in all fairness those could be interesting. I like the idea of having some
curation when I am just to lazy to pick and poke around my playlists. They
have lined up some DJs who could make it something interesting.Also, the fact
that Apple is going to make an Android and Windows app for this service as
well. So, we will now have shitty software on those other platforms as well.
For anyone who has used iTunes or Safari on a PC, I am sure they are holding
their breath on this one. Personally, I would love to see a powerful web app
more than a windows app. That is one thing that did disappoint me. I think
that a lot of people stream music during the day at work, and some IT
departments might lock down installing apps on work computers. It would be a
pleasing addition to the app roster.The killer thing that Apple did was a
price. They are offering a family plan for 14.99 for up to six accounts. The
fake families are already starting to form on the internet. I am sure there is
a sub Reddit that will happen soon after it launches. I mean that price point
alone is compelling to make me think about switching. I use a family plan with
my wife on Spotify for 14.99 for just the two of us. But, if we can get a
little group situation going for the same price and cut are bill down even
further. It is not like Spotify is the killer app. I thinkRdio beats them on
design. Spotify is just the spot that all my friends are on. It makes sharing
easier and playlists.They waited till June 30th to launch, and that is another
particular thing to me. Everyone was talking about it last week, and the buzz
was high. They are offering up 3-month free trials for it as well. I was ready
to sign up. I think some of the allure will be gone come the end of the month.
But, I think that family plan pricing will be something that will lure more
people than we think over to Apple Music.Don't forget just because Apple
installs the app by default doesn't mean people will use it. I am sure a lot
of people have a folder of just "Apple Junk" with the stocks app and other
tings you can't remove. There is nothing stopping this from adding to the mix.