Winamp is preparing a relaunch that will include a subscription streaming service, established in collaboration with Deezer. This new service is expected to launch in 2027, utilizing the infrastructure and vast music catalog provided by Deezer.
Details of the Partnership and Launch
A joint announcement made by both companies this Wednesday, July 29th, detailed that under the agreement, Deezer will provide music streaming technology on a white-label basis, along with its global music catalog. This will allow Winamp to introduce its new premium service under its own brand.
Features of the New Application
Although the launch of the new Winamp is scheduled for the first half of 2027, detailed information is still pending. Developers stated that the new player will go beyond streaming, integrating user music libraries, online radio stations, podcasts, personal cloud-saved collections, and other audio sources.
Additionally, the application will feature social functionalities, new ways to organize and discover music, and a highly customizable interface. The company also mentioned the possibility of bringing back the iconic Winamp skins.
Distinctions and History of Winamp
The creators emphasize that the Winamp streaming service will be 'fundamentally different' from conventional platforms, as it aims to 'reimagine both the music listening experience and the subscription model.' They stressed that details will be disclosed closer to the launch date.
It is worth noting that this is not Winamp's first attempt to act as a streaming platform. In 2023, the brand launched Fanzone, a model reminiscent of services like Patreon or Bandcamp, where artists and producers offered paid or free subscriptions, granting access to extra benefits and items such as NFTs. Listeners could access this network through the Winamp applications for Android and iOS, or directly on the creators' websites.
