iLike, Sony launch new music trivia app to boost song sales
iLike, a platform for sharing music via social networks and other sites, took a step in a new direction today with the launch of its iLike Challenge application for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Available starting now in the Apple App Store, iLike Challenge allows users to compete with one another (or just test their own knowledge) based on how any songs they can correctly identify during a timed session. All of the music is supplied by iLike’s partner Sony Music.
Featuring songs from well-known and Top 40 artists like Britney Spears, Santana, The Fray and Kenny Chesney, the app was designed with music discovery opportunities in mind. The idea is that users who download the app will explore and find new songs as they play along with the game, perhaps prompting them to buy the music. The app costs $2.99 in the App Store.
The competition aspect of the new app is believed to be a compelling marketing tool. Its developers even built in a two-player mode that allows two users to compete against each other on the same device. They are hoping that the emphasis on trivia will keep users hooked, looking to expand their knowledge and hopefully their music collection as well.
The app is in keeping with iLike’s core business as a music discovery and recommendation engine. Now with 50 million users, it is the dominant music sharing app on Facebook, iGoogle and other platforms. Its users can build playlists and concert schedules and encourage their friends to check out new music all via popular social networks. At the same time, artists can use the platform to maintain an online presence across social networks that puts them into closer touch with their fans.
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About the Author, Camille Ricketts
Camille is the lead writer for GreenBeat. She came to VentureBeat from Google where she worked on its traditional platforms team, particularly in TV. Before that, she was a reporter for the Wall Street Journal in New York and London. Follow her on Twitter at @camillericketts, and follow VentureBeat on Twitter at @venturebeat.
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