Spotify’s launch in India was unofficially scheduled for January 31st, with one source reporting that a Mumbai’s Famous Studios had already been booked for a launch party tonight. Now sources within India are reporting that the launch has been delayed until March.
The current delay is reportedly because Spotify has failed to ink deals for India with Universal Music Group and Sony, according to digit.in, a top tech site in the region. Other sources suggest that all three majors have yet to sign details.
The sticking point is likely local subscription pricing and details for any free tier. Spotify will need to keep its offering inexpensive to compete with local music streaming leader JioSaacvn, which is priced at around $3.00 USD per month. But lower subscription prices mean lower payments to artists and labels.