Amazon Music has increased prices for its Unlimited subscription service in the U.S., while introducing a new non-audiobook 'Standard' option at lower rates.

Key Price Changes:

• Prime members: Unlimited Individual increases to $10.99/month (+$1)
• Non-Prime members: Unlimited Individual now $11.99/month
• Unlimited Family: rises to $19.99/month (+$3)
• Annual Unlimited Individual (Prime): increases to $109 (from $99)
• Annual Unlimited Family: increases to $199 (+$30)

The new pricing structure takes effect immediately for new subscribers and after March 5th for existing customers. However, Amazon Music now offers "Standard" plans without audiobooks at previous price points:

• Standard Individual (Prime): $9.99/month
• Standard Family: maintains pre-increase pricing

This move follows Spotify's recent bundling strategy, which combines music and audiobooks. The distinction between Unlimited (with audiobooks) and Standard plans could significantly impact royalty payments to songwriters and publishers, as bundled revenue is treated differently under the Phonorecords IV determination.

According to industry data, about 20% of Amazon Music's U.S. subscribers use bundled plans, compared to Spotify's 99%. This pricing restructure, combined with Amazon's recent "artist-centric" partnership with Universal Music Group, suggests potential changes in how mechanical royalties are calculated and distributed in the U.S. market.

While Apple Music maintains its $10.99 monthly Individual plan rate, Amazon's strategic move reflects the industry's broader trend toward differentiated pricing tiers and bundle offerings.

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