Last.fm is now operating as an independent company after a change in ownership, the company announced today [1, 2]. The team building and operating Last.fm remains the same, assuring users of continuity in service and development [1, 2].
Users can expect no changes to their accounts, listening history, scrobbles, or Pro subscriptions, which remain unaffected by the ownership change [1, 2]. Last.fm also confirmed that user data and privacy settings will remain secure and unchanged [1, 2]. There are no plans to change pricing or billing for Pro subscriptions at this time [1, 2].
Last.fm will focus on enhancing listening insights and community features now that it is independent [1]. API functionality for developers will continue without disruption, maintaining support for third-party integrations [1].
The company has a long history in music streaming. It launched in 2002 as an internet radio station before adding scrobbling technology through a merger with its original tracking team [2]. CBS Interactive acquired Last.fm in 2007 for $280 million. The service ended its $3-per-month subscription radio offering in 2014 to focus on tracking users’ listening habits across other providers [2]. Prior to this independence, Last.fm was owned by Paramount Skydance [2].
The recent ownership change and independence mark a new chapter for Last.fm, which will continue operating with its existing team and user base. Further updates on new features and enhancements are expected as the company develops its listening insights and community tools [1].
