Spotify to hold back new albums? Netflix to ditch star ratings

This is CNET and here are the stories that matter right now. According to the Financial Times, Spotify is considering holding back select new releases from the free version of its streaming service in an effort to convert more paid subscriptions. The move would help ease the increasingly strained relationship between Spotify and major record labels As streaming continues to influence the industry. Amazon's digital assistant, Alexa, has arrived on IOS and can be used directly on iPhones and iPads through the Amazon app. Access to Alexa stretches beyond just simple shopping and customer service commands. The entirety of Alexa's skills have now been unlocked. So far these features have yet to arrive in the Android version. [MUSIC] Finally, Netflix is doing away with the five star rating system and instead opting for a binary thumbs up or down. A recent test run of the format increased review submission frequency, all without compromising recommendation accuracy. The company will also introduce a percentage rating, so a viewer knows just how closely their viewing habits match a given title. Look for the new rating system to hit soon. [MUSIC] You can stay up to date with the latest by downloading the CNet tech today app in the Apple or Google Play store.