Apple Music Co-Head Examines AI and the Evolution of Music Production at Web Summit

### Tech, AI, and Music Production: Perspectives from Web Summit 2025

During the recent Web Summit held in Lisbon, Apple Music co-head Ole Obermann and acclaimed Dutch DJ and producer Armin van Buuren engaged in an insightful dialogue regarding the revolutionary influence of technology on the music sector. Their exchange underscored the dual nature of innovation and the human element in defining the future of music.

#### The Golden Age of Music

Obermann, who previously participated in the summit as a ByteDance executive, conveyed a hopeful outlook for the music industry’s future, stating, “there is a golden era ahead of us.” He highlighted that technological advancements are broadening music accessibility, improving discovery avenues, and nurturing stronger bonds between artists and their fans.

#### The Impact of AI on Music Production

A considerable segment of the discussion centered on the incorporation of artificial intelligence in music creation. Van Buuren recounted his own experiences with AI tools, demonstrating their practical uses. He described a particular situation where he effectively transformed the voice of a male vocalist into that of a female vocalist using AI technology. This illustration showcases the creative possibilities that AI introduces into the artistic workflow.

#### Harmonizing Technology and Human Connection

In spite of the excitement surrounding technological progress, Obermann reminded attendees of the crucial human aspect in music creation. He emphasized that while technology can enrich the musical experience, it must not overshadow the creativity and genuineness that artists contribute to their art. Van Buuren supported this idea, warning against excessive dependence on technology that might compromise the artistic essence of music.

#### Apple Music’s Spatial Audio Innovation

Van Buuren also lauded Apple Music’s Spatial Audio technology, acknowledging its noteworthy impact on the quality of his recent album, *Piano*. The album features tracks that were recorded in one take, and the Spatial Audio enhancement significantly enriched the listening experience, illustrating how technology can enhance artistic creativity.

#### Conclusion

The conversation between Obermann and van Buuren at the Web Summit serves as a reminder of the changing dynamics within the music industry. As technology progresses, the challenge lies in striking a balance between innovation and the human touch that characterizes music as an artistic endeavor. For those keen on exploring these developments, Apple Music presents a subscription service that provides access to state-of-the-art features such as Spatial Audio.

Belkin Announces Recall for Three Items, Featuring Two USB-C Power Banks, Over Fire Risks

**Belkin Announces Product Safety Recall Due to Fire Risk**

Accessory manufacturer Belkin has revealed a product safety recall affecting three of its items due to a possible fire risk. The company has advised customers to take prompt action to ensure their safety.

### Products Affected

As per the [safety recall announcement](https://www.belkin.com/support-article/?articleNum=337290), the following items are part of the recall:

– **Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro (MMA008)**
– **Belkin BoostCharge USB-C PD Power Bank 20K (BPB002)**
– **Playa USB-C PD Power Bank 20K (PB0003)**

Belkin stresses that even if these items seem to operate normally, users must cease using them immediately, disconnect them from any power sources or other devices, and contact Belkin via the [Recall Claim form](https://belkin.my.site.com/supportforms/product-recall-form).

### Return and Refund Instructions

Customers are advised against disposing of the recalled items in regular waste or recycling bins. Belkin is providing affected customers with a choice between a complete refund or store credit for the full amount plus an extra 20% on Belkin.com.

### How to Check if Your Device is Affected

To determine if your device is included in the recall, follow these steps:

1. Find the model number located on the back or side of your Belkin device. If it is MMA008, BPB002, or PB0003, move to Step 2. If not, no action is necessary.
2. Locate your serial number and/or proof of purchase.
3. Fill out the Recall Claim form.

Should you have any inquiries or issues, you can [reach out to Belkin Customer Service](https://www.belkin.com/support-article?articleNum=55022) for help.

For additional information concerning the recall,

Apple Revises App Review Guidelines to Tackle Imitation Applications

Apple has revised its App Review Guidelines, implementing a number of new rules designed to enhance the integrity of the App Store and tackle the issue of copycat applications. This revision encompasses a total of nine amendments, with a notable emphasis on deterring developers from misappropriating the branding of other developers.

### ‘Develop Your Own Concepts’

Apple routinely updates its App Review Guidelines to respond to market dynamics. The latest revision underscores the importance of originality and discourages developers from replicating successful applications. A significant addition is a new rule in section 4.1, entitled “Copycats,” which specifies:

> **4.1 Copycats**
> (c) You may not utilize another developer’s icon, brand, or product name in your app’s icon or title, without the developer’s authorization.

This rule supports existing guidelines that already warn against imitation and impersonation. The former rules comprise:

> (a) Develop your own concepts. We understand you have them, so bring yours to fruition. Avoid merely duplicating the latest trending app on the App Store, or making minor alterations to another app’s title or UI and presenting it as your own. Besides the risk of an intellectual property violation claim, it complicates App Store navigation and is unfair to other developers.

> (b) Submitting applications that impersonate other applications or services is deemed a breach of the Developer Code of Conduct and could lead to expulsion from the Apple Developer Program.

The recent rise in copycat applications, especially following OpenAI’s official app launch, has compelled Apple to act promptly. The company has endeavored to eliminate or rename these imitation applications, emphasizing the persistent challenge of preserving originality in the App Store.

### What Other Changes Occurred?

In addition to the newly introduced branding rule, several other amendments have been made to the App Review Guidelines:

– **1.2.1(a)**: Creator applications must offer a mechanism for users to identify content that surpasses the app’s age rating and enforce age restrictions based on verified or declared age.

– **2.5.10**: The guideline stipulating that apps should not be submitted with vacant ad banners or test ads has been annulled.

– **3.2.2(ix)**: Loan applications are specified to not impose a maximum APR exceeding 36%, inclusive of costs and fees, and must not mandate full repayment within 60 days or less.

– **4.7**: Clarifies that HTML5 and JavaScript mini apps and mini games are encompassed within the guidelines.

– **4.7.2**: Applications providing software not integrated into the binary may not extend or expose native platform APIs or technologies without prior consent from Apple.

– **4.7.5**: Similar to 1.2.1(a), this guideline mandates that applications offering non-embedded software provide a method for users to identify content that surpasses the app’s age rating.

– **5.1.1(ix)**: Cryptocurrency exchanges have been incorporated into the list of applications providing services in highly regulated sectors.

– **5.1.2(i)**: Developers must clearly reveal where personal data will be shared with external parties, including third-party AI, and secure explicit consent prior to doing so.

For additional information, the complete App Review Guidelines are available