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1200 free samples, Meta paid verification, Rihanna collab for exposure and more

Your AudioBits from the industry. Get up to speed in 2 minutes.

Over one-third of U.S music listeners don't pay for a streaming service

Activate Consulting has released a report that shows over a third of US music listeners did not pay for a streaming service in 2021 and 2022. The report found that 35% of US residents aged 18 or above who listened to music did not have a paid music subscription, while ad-supported streamers were more likely to be aged 55 or above and have an annual household income of less than $50,000. (Link)

Free sample pack with 1200 samples!

Pianobook, a community-driven online platform created by Christian Henson, the founder of Spitfire Audio's LABS that offers a vast library of free sample packs, has expanded beyond its original focus on piano instruments. Their new Decent Sampler, developed by David Hilowitz, has made it possible for anyone to access and use the thousands of free sampler instruments available on Pianobook. (Link)

Facebook & Instagram adds paid verification

Facebook and Instagram, which are now part of Meta, have announced the introduction of paid verifications, similar to Twitter's Blue checkmark. Meta Verified will offer customers a government ID verification and a blue badge, as well as more impersonation protection against fraudulent accounts, direct access to customer service, exclusive stickers for Stories and Reels, 100 free monthly stars, and, most notably, an improved reach and visibility on the platforms" (Link)

Super Bowl: "Rihanna, wanna collab for exposure?"

Despite not being paid to perform at the Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show, Rihanna's streaming and sales increased during the event weekend. Performances at the Super Bowl Halftime Show are never paid for by Super Bowl, but the exposure seems to be worth it. Luminate data shows that her digital album sales increased by 301% and digital song sales increased by 390% while on-demand audio streams were up by 211% (Link)

Honourable mentions

  • Laptop with unreleased Michael Jackson content was stolen. (Link)

  • ATC introduces Mk2 to their famous 3-way speaker (Link)