If you were lucky enough to get your hands on a copy of the iPhone music streaming app Grooveshark last week, count your lucky stars as it has now been pulled from the App Store by Apple.
Original added to the iPhone App store only last week, the music streaming app has already had a long and arduous process of getting approved, to finally be removed by Apple.
The Grooveshark iPhone app did allow you to search Grooveshark’s massive library, and view your saved playlists/favourites, then download them for offline play.
However, after a dispute between the Grooveshark team and Universal Music Group, Apple has now seen fit to remove Grooveshark from the Apple App Store and play its role as arbitrator.
The Dispute with Universal Music Group
The conflict between Grooveshark and Universal Music Group (UMG) is not a new one. UMG has long accused Grooveshark of copyright infringement, claiming that the app allows users to stream and download music without proper licensing. This dispute has led to numerous legal battles, with UMG seeking to protect its artists’ intellectual property rights. Grooveshark, on the other hand, has argued that it operates within the bounds of the law, providing a platform for music discovery and enjoyment.
The removal of Grooveshark from the App Store is a significant blow to the app’s user base, which relied on its extensive music library and offline playback features. For many users, Grooveshark was a go-to app for discovering new music and creating personalized playlists. The app’s unique features, such as the ability to download songs for offline listening, set it apart from other music streaming services.
Impact on Users and the Music Streaming Industry
The removal of Grooveshark from the App Store raises important questions about the future of music streaming apps and the role of major corporations like Apple in regulating access to digital content. While Apple’s decision to remove the app may be seen as a move to protect copyright holders, it also highlights the challenges faced by smaller companies in navigating the complex landscape of digital music rights.
For users, the loss of Grooveshark means finding alternative ways to access their favorite music. While there are many other music streaming services available, such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora, each comes with its own set of limitations and subscription fees. Grooveshark’s free, ad-supported model was particularly appealing to users who wanted access to a vast music library without the need for a paid subscription.
The removal of Grooveshark also underscores the importance of licensing agreements in the music industry. As streaming services continue to grow in popularity, securing the rights to stream and download music legally is crucial for their long-term success. Companies that fail to obtain proper licensing may face legal challenges and the risk of having their apps removed from major platforms like the App Store.
You can read more about the decision on the Grooveshark Blog.
Via Lifehacker
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
