Apple’s spatial audio royalty shift sparks controversy among indie labels

Image: Apple

Apple's recent initiative to provide higher royalties to artists embracing spatial audio has stirred discontent among indie labels. Critics argue that this move may divert potential earnings from smaller labels to larger companies with greater financial resources. The Financial Times reported that Apple began offering a 10 percent increase in royalties for artists releasing spatial audio tracks on Apple Music last month. However, the additional compensation is sourced from the same fixed pool of funds used to remunerate artists who do not adopt the spatial audio format.

Spatial audio, created using Dolby Atmos technology, incurs an estimated additional cost of around US$1,000 (around CA$1,348) per song, according to industry executives interviewed by FT. Extrapolating this cost to entire albums reveals a substantial financial burden, especially considering the extensive back catalogue of albums that many labels maintain. The Financial Times consulted with executives from prominent labels such as Beggars Group, Secretly, and Partisan Records, home to artists like Vampire Weekend and Phoebe Bridgers. In response to these concerns, the affected labels plan to engage with Apple, hoping to negotiate a more favourable arrangement.

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Google’s Bard AI tool to reportedly get a Gemini makeover

Image: Google

A document leaked on X reveals that Google is preparing to announce some major updates to its Bard AI tool as early as next week. The document, which has not been officially verified, claims that Google will rename Bard to Gemini, the same name as its new multimodal AI model that was launched in late 2023. This could be a strategic move by Google to unify its AI products under one brand name. Gemini is already powering some of Google’s services, including Bard.

The document also includes a changelog from an Android app developer named Dylan Roussel, dated February 7. According to the changelog, Google will introduce a paid subscription option called Gemini Advanced, which will allow users to access the Ultra 1.0 model of Gemini. This model is described as “far more capable at highly complex tasks like coding, logical reasoning, following nuanced instructions, and creative collaboration.” Gemini Advanced will be initially available in over 150 countries and optimized for the English language. The document also states that Gemini will be available in Canada with this release.

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OnePlus offers deals on high-performance devices this February

OnePlus offers deals on high-performance devices this February

Image: OnePlus

If you’re in the market for cutting-edge smartphones, tablets, and accessories, look no further than OnePlus. This month, OnePlus.com is rolling out a lineup of amazing deals that will leave tech enthusiasts thrilled. Whether you’re upgrading your phone or adding to your audio gear, here’s what you need to know:

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