Shazam is now available on the BlackBerry Storm device.
Is this exciting?
OK, I am the first to admit it this is not the most exciting press release in the world -but I am talking about it because of the business model.
What is the business model?
BlackBerry Storm smartphone users will be able to choose from a free, basic version of Shazam with limited functionality or a full-featured version for $4.99 or £5 (one-off fee depending on location).
The full-featured version includes unlimited Tags, Tag charts, recommendations for similar tracks, biographies of artists, reviews of tagged music, discographies and the option to buy and share discovered music. Shazam is currently offering a free, seven-day trial of the full-featured version.
What we think?
This is interesting as I love music discovery as its on a per need basis and I think that with Gracenote on my Sony Ericsson I pay per use and that suits me. Would I pay GBP 5 for a richer service with tagging and music discovery and sharing and other features?
I am the first to admit it, probably not.
But I have huge regard for any mobile service fighting for a business model as money can and should be made from strong services. Also, if you are into music this might be ideal for showing how cool you are knowing or finding new music.
BUT GBP 5 seems a bit steep and are BlackBerry users the music loving type? I agree that finding a business model for music services is vital – but am not convinced its BlackBerry Storm users.
