The music recommendation service Last.fm, owned by CBS, has announced that it will be discontinuing its free ad-supported music service for phones and home entertainment devices and moving to a subscription service.
The ad-free subscription service will be $3 per month, and the free service will be cut on February 15th on mobile and home devices but will stay on Xbox 360 and Windows Phone 7 devices.
Reasons Behind the Shift
Last.fm explained their reasoning behind the move in a blog post, stating that its ad-supported streaming services to mobile and other non-PC devices just weren’t practical anymore. The company cited increasing costs and the complexity of maintaining a free service across multiple platforms as significant factors. By transitioning to a subscription model, Last.fm aims to provide a more sustainable and higher-quality service to its users.
The shift to a subscription model is not entirely surprising, given the broader industry trends. Many music streaming services, such as Spotify and Apple Music, have found success with subscription-based models. These services often offer better sound quality, exclusive content, and additional features that free, ad-supported services cannot match. Last.fm’s decision to follow this path indicates a strategic move to remain competitive in a crowded market.
Impact on Users and Devices
The change will affect users who have been enjoying Last.fm’s free service on their mobile phones and home entertainment devices. These users will need to decide whether to subscribe to the $3 per month service or seek alternative free music streaming options. However, it’s worth noting that the free service will continue to be available on Xbox 360 and Windows Phone 7 devices, providing some continuity for users on these platforms.
For those who choose to subscribe, the ad-free experience promises uninterrupted music streaming and potentially additional features that enhance the overall user experience. Subscribers can expect a more reliable service with fewer interruptions and a more extensive music library. This move could also lead to the introduction of new features and improvements, as the subscription revenue can be reinvested into the platform’s development.
All details of the Last.fm changes, including country-specific rules and the effect this will have on home entertainment devices with Last.fm integration, are available on the company’s site. This resource provides comprehensive information on how the transition will be managed and what users can expect moving forward.
The transition to a subscription model is a significant change for Last.fm and its users. While it may be disappointing for those who have enjoyed the free service, the move is likely necessary for the platform’s long-term viability. By focusing on a subscription-based model, Last.fm can continue to innovate and provide a high-quality music streaming experience in an increasingly competitive market.
Via Pocket Now
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.
