Amazon Music has implemented price increases for its Unlimited subscription plans in the U.S., while introducing a new non-audiobook 'Standard' option at lower price points.

The new pricing structure includes:

• Unlimited Individual (Prime members): $10.99/month (up $1)
• Unlimited Individual (non-Prime): $11.99/month
• Unlimited Family: $19.99/month (up $3)
• Annual Unlimited Individual (Prime): $109 (up from $99)
• Annual Unlimited Family: $199 (up $30)

The price increases will affect existing subscribers starting March 5th. However, Amazon Music has introduced "Amazon Music Standard," a music-only plan without audiobooks that maintains previous pricing:

• Standard (Prime members): $9.99/month
• Standard Family: Previous family plan pricing

This move mirrors Spotify's recent strategy of separating bundled services (music + audiobooks) from music-only plans. The distinction between Unlimited and Standard plans likely impacts mechanical royalty calculations for songwriters and publishers, similar to how Spotify's bundled revenue is treated differently under Phonorecords IV determination.

Currently, 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 will be calculated for Amazon Music's U.S. operations.

The impact of these changes on subscription numbers and royalty payments will be particularly significant for the music industry, especially as Apple Music maintains its $10.99 monthly Individual plan pricing.

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