New research just released by telecommunications leader Ericsson into consumer interests shows music is second only to news consumption.

Speaking at Convergence ’06 Oceania in Auckland today, newly appointed new media manager for Ericsson, Daniel Segal, has released a preview of the statistics, which tracked more than 2,000 Australians' technology needs and usage.

The in-depth Ericsson Consumer Lab research found music is the most important form of digital media with 60% of Australians saying they were interested in it. 

It shows personal computers have become a mass listening device, and about 30% of Australians are now listening to music on their mobile phones.

Segal, formerly of Sony Music Entertainment, says the research proves people want to access music no matter where they are; and over a variety of devices.

"This is an area of huge opportunity for the telecommunications industry.  The potential new revenue growth by music alone is phenomenal."

He says with its partners, Ericsson has already developed, and is continuing to expand, the broadest music offering on the market.

“Already Ericsson is providing solutions to more than 350 media and brand organisations across 21 countries.  With Napster alone Ericsson has created a full music solution and Napster now has the largest digital library in the world.”

He says the popularity of music will only increase in importance for the telecom and music industries.

“The mobile channel is also becoming important for marketing, promotion, sales and distribution for the entire music industry.”

Ericsson Music Solutions include digital rights management, content management, a recommendation engine, dual delivery, streaming, and downloads. Ericsson Music Solutions are based on a service delivery platform tailored for media delivery, featuring content from leading music industry labels.