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Amazon seeks to democratize digital radio with Clubhouse-competing app

Ever wanted to MC your own radio show? Following suit of live audio pioneer Clubhouse, Amazon Music‘s latest buildout to convert subscribers will take the form of a digital radio app. Currently referred to as “Project Mic,” the software extension will allow Amazon’s userbase to DJ their own interactive radio shows or simply tune-in as listeners.

Although Clubhouse ultimately popularized live audio streaming on Android and iOS interfaces, the live chatroom labyrinth lacks the rights to stream copyright-protected music. Amazon intends to grant “Project Mic” radio hosts access to the DSP’s immense music catalog, while also facilitating “radio call-ins” via its line of Alexa-supported devices, which (quite appropriately) includes a Bluetooth-equipped car device called the Echo Auto.

“Project Mic” reportedly aims to incorporate regional advertisements in its users’ radio programs, opening an opportunistic door for localized businesses and entrepreneurs. Furthermore, Amazon is allegedly in talks with a few major celebrities and even some select micro-influencers, who will assist in curating a plethora of live radio shows come the app’s official launch date. Though the programming will be primarily music-driven, “Project Mic” also intends to incorporate pop culture, sports, and comedy-focused content. Upon release, the innovative radio app will be made available exclusively in the United States.

Featured image: Amanda Edwards