A new article published by Reuters reports BACH Technology plans to launch a successor to the popular MP3 music file, with the new music format able to embed lyrics, images and other information into the file itself.
The new smart technology even gives content owners the right to add and send new updates directly to the music file. Once a user signs up online, they have the ability to modify what type of information is provided when a song plays.
This new music format, now dubbed MusicDNA, could be used by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to combat online music piracy. The trade group has been reluctant to embrace digital music -- instead filing lawsuits against accused file sharers -- but they are slowly catching up to the times.
"We are getting very good feedback and the fact we are looking to include everyone in this, and not competing against them, helps," said Stefan Kohlmeyer, BACH Technology CEO, in an interview with Reuters.
BACH will now continue to branch out to record labels, as Universal Music Group and other record labels need to learn about some of the features of this new file format. I hope BACH doesn't give the record labels too much control in development, which could lead to additional DRM schemes that might interfere with listening.
BACH also must work directly with retailers, music communities and bands if it is serious about bringing in new partners.
MP3's are the most popular music files in use today, remaining dominant over the numerous other lossless and lossy audio file formats available. Some critics have speculated that a new lossless music file technology that offers more enhanced features could work to take market-share from the almighty MP3, but any dent into the format's popularity is yet to be seen.
