Ad-supported streaming is an important, but often controversial, part of the new music business. It’s an important component for more radio-like services such as Pandora and acts as a vital funnel in bringing in paid subscribers to full on-demand services. When it comes to services like YouTube, the issue of the comparative value which ad-supported brings in, compared with subscription, is still one of the industry’s hottest topics. This panel will aim to answer the following:
- How sustainable is the ad-funded model?
- Is there a value gap, and if so, what can be done to improve the situation?
- Will there always be a role for ad-funded in driving premium paid subscriptions?
- How does the role of ad-funded vary according to different regions and countries?
