eircom has just unveiled its new MusicHub initiative, which will enable its broadband customers to stream millions of tracks from all genres for free. It has a ‘My Music’ feature that allows users to build up a library of favourite artists, music and custom playlists to be shared with friends. The service offers streaming at 128kbps AAC+, far superior to the stream rate of other services.
They’re also entering the download market with bundled up packages that they claim are up to 75% cheaper than iTunes, and work out at as little as 32 cent per track.
To coincide with the MusicHub launch, eircom confirmed that it’s pressing ahead with the ‘graduated response’ to illegal downloading that it previously agreed with the Irish Recorded Music Association.
“eircom is proceeding with implementation of the protocol which could result in the suspension and ultimately disconnection of broadband service for those customers who deliberately and persistently infringe copyright,” reads an official statement. “This is a measure of last resort and the protocol has been designed to ensure that customers do not find themselves in this position.
“Since January of 2009, eircom has worked with the music industry through its representative body IRMA to implement a formal process aimed at reducing instances of illegal copyright infringement, and together the protocol was developed whereby customers who engage in copyright infringement by way of illegal file sharing would first be informed that their activity was illegal and then would receive a number of notifications in the form of written warnings encouraging them to change their behaviour. If a customer persists with the illegal activity it may result in a seven-day suspension or yearlong disconnection of their broadband service. The protocol commenced on a trial basis in June 2010. Since the commencement of the trial, the number of notifications received from the music industry and processed each week has increased to approximately 1,000.
“At the heart of the protocol is the desire to help our customers to avoid illegal copyright infringement by creating awareness about the issues surrounding copyright infringement and illegal file sharing of copyrighted music. eircom is committed to helping its customers get the most from their broadband service and ensuring customers can access the world of digital music in a legal way.
“eircom has set up a dedicated team to work on this protocol and customers who have queries or require further information can contact our dedicated team via telephone on 1890 253 059. We have also created a dedicated website which provides further information on the process and this can be accessed at [link]www.eircom.net/legalmusic[/link]."
The joint announcements were made this morning at the eircom building in Heuston South Quarter where Imelda May supplied the live music. Hotpress.com will bring you artist and industry response as we get it.