Amazon launched a new mobile app, named Amp, which gives users the ability to create live “radio shows” where they can take callers and play tracks from its catalog of millions of songs. The application is currently in beta in the U.S.
“It’s easy to share your voice and favorite songs with the world on Amp,” says Amp’s description on the App Store. “Decide on a show title, create a playlist, and you’re just seconds away from streaming your own radio show.”
Amp gives users the ability to play DJ. They can stream and discuss their favorite music and artists while curating a broad selection of music. Creators can pre-plan and schedule shows, inform listeners about upcoming shows, and have the ability to accept live callers. Also, creators do not have to get any licenses to use the music.
“Radio has always been about music and culture,” said John Ciancutti, vice president of Amp. “But imagine if you were inventing the medium for the first time today. You’d combine what people love about radio-spontaneous talk, new music discovery, diverse personalities, and broad programming-with all that’s made possible by today’s technology. You’d make it so anybody with a phone, a voice, and a love for music could make their own show. And that’s exactly what we’re doing. Amp makes it possible for you to grab the mic and run the airwaves. We are creating a new version of radio that will have an infinite dial of shows.’