Snap Inc. Wants To Expand The Ways Snapchat users Can include Music In their Posts

Photo: Snap Inc.

According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Snap Inc. is in talks with record labels to “expand the ways users can include music in posts” on Snapchat.

Over the years, Snap has secured licenses on a case-by-case basis such as with Gwen Stefani’s “Jingle Bells” which was part of its Lens Challenge feature that combined lip syncing and augmented reality. However, it is now seeking broader licenses with Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group, the big three of record labels. If it’s successful, then Snapchat users would have access to a library of songs that they could add to their snaps.

Snap’s desire to expand its music integration comes at a time where music has become an integral part of the social media experience. In the last year or so, Instagram has added several music features including Spotify integration and Music Stickers while ByteDance’s TikTok’s has taken advantage of low-cost licensing en route to becoming the most downloaded app on iOS the last five quarters.

Already facing challenges with user acquisition, expanding its current music offering could be the key for Snapchat to grow its user base or at least stabilize it especially when it comes to Generation Z.

In other social media news, Instagram recently rolled out a redesigned Explore page that puts an emphasis on IGTV, Shopping, and Stories.

For more social media news, follow me on Twitter.

SOURCE: The Wall Street Journal