FAQs

1) How many tracks are available via the 7digital API?
Over 10,000,000 (July, 2010) tracks in our total repertoire, although this includes multiple versions of single tracks due to differing rights across territories, so the final number per territory will be lower.  For example, our complete repertoire of unique tracks in the UK is currently 5,000,000 (Jan, 2010).

2) What music formats does 7digital support?
MP3, ACC, WMA, FLAC, PDF, Software Downloads and Windows Media DRM supported.  However, DRM files are not supported in the Business API.

3) Do I need to concern myself with music licensing?
No, 7digital manages all aspects of the licensing.  You will only be able to access tracks applicable for the country you are operating your store in.

4) How will I receive payment for sales?
You will invoice 7digital or we will invoice you depending on how the billing is set up. This is usually quarterly unless a special arrangement is made.

5) What development support is available?
Using the Public API all support is provided via the portal where you can access resources, such as the Documentation, Blog and Discussion Forum.  There are different levels of support available when you sign up to the Premium API methods, more details available on application.

6) How do I report any user problems with my download service?  How quickly might these be fixed?
If you are a premium user you will email your 7digital Account Manager who will respond within 5 working days unless a higher service level is arranged.

7) How quickly are new releases added to my download store?
Our feeds are updated weekly. New releases will be included for pre-order tracks before the release date as-and-when they are delivered from the record label.

8) Can I offer my customers special discounts on tracks?
As a Non-Commercial API user you will not be able to set the price.  Depending on which Commercial API service you sign up to you have the ability to set your own retail price. However, 7digital will always charge you a set amount that covers a variety of costs, such as publishing, label dealer price, MP3 license, costs, etc. so it is imperative you charge an amount that ensure you make money as opposed to losing money!
 
9) Can I sell music in more than one country?
Yes you can, but we will need to know exactly which countries you wish to sell downloads in so we can provide you with the correct licensed products.

10) Can I set up a streaming service?
Yes, this service is available as a Commercial partner.  Please email the sales team for more information sales@7digital.com.

11) Why can an item be shown as on sale but I don’t get that same sale price?
The sale price is usually a loss leader for 7digital. It is included in the API as the feeds are also used by people developing and pushing customers to our .com services.

12) What is the difference between the Public API and Business API?
The Non-Commercial API is FREE to use and provides an extremely rich set of functions.  You can create a store that allows users to browse, search and view preview clips from the 7digital catalogue. Sales from your store will also be included in official charts (dependent on territory).  Purchases are managed by 7digital, so you do not need to worry about setting up merchant services and we give you the flexibility of being able to accept a wide range of payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Click and Buy and Pay. 

Our Commercial API** has been designed specifically for commercial partners wishing to create their own branded music services, this may be a branded store selling the full 7digital repertoire or an customer acquisition/retention programme offering free or discounted music.  The 7digital Commercial API has been used by many leading organisations to create fully integrated services, including Spotify, Nestle (KitKat), Toshiba, DevelopIQ (BlackBerry Application) and many more.  As a Commercial API user you will have access a variety of methods that will allow you to fully integrate the service with your brand and so provide a seamless customer experience, including branded check out, client-side payment, single-click purchasing, single sign-on, access to customer's locker (for file reload purposes) and a range of other functions that allows you to create branded services specifically for your customers. The Commercial API is available at three levels - Basic, Standard and Premium and are priced accordingly, for more information on the methods available with each level contact the B2B sales team on +44 (0) 207 099 7777, or email us on sales@7digital.com.