tape it - AI Music Recording App for iPhone
A New App Emerges to Replace Apple's Discontinued Music Memos
Following the official discontinuation of Apple’s Music Memos earlier this year, a new startup, Tape It, has emerged to address the needs of musicians seeking a convenient audio recording solution. This application aims to enhance audio capture with features like superior sound quality, automated instrument identification, and the ability to incorporate markers, notes, and images.
The Team Behind Tape It
Tape It was conceived by two musicians, Thomas Walther and Jan Nash. Walther previously dedicated three and a half years to Spotify, joining after their 2017 acquisition of Sonalytic, a company he co-founded specializing in audio detection.
Expertise and Background
Nash brings a unique skillset as a classically trained opera singer, alongside her proficiency in bass guitar and engineering. Joining them is Christian Crusius, a designer and musician formerly with the design consultancy Fjord, which was acquired by Accenture.
The founders, having collaborated in a band for numerous years, developed Tape It based on their own requirements. Walther explains that after his time at Spotify’s Soundtrap division – also acquired by Spotify in 2017 – he desired a project centered on music creation.
However, Soundtrap didn’t fully align with their needs. They envisioned a streamlined tool for recording music directly on a smartphone – a practice already common with Apple’s Voice Memos and, previously, Music Memos.
The Importance of Mobile Recording
Walther emphasizes the ubiquity of smartphone recording, stating, “Regardless of skill level, professionals and amateurs alike will record ideas on their phones.” He draws a parallel to cameras, asserting that the most effective tool is the one readily available.
He continues, “The simplest approach when inspiration strikes isn’t to set up a complex studio, but to instantly record on your iPhone.”
Tape It's Enhanced Features
Tape It builds upon the functionality of Voice Memos by introducing additional features. The app utilizes AI to automatically identify instruments during recording.
Smart Annotation and Organization
This identification is visually represented, simplifying the process of locating recordings. Musicians can also add custom markers, notes, and photos during recording to aid in recall and context.
Walther notes, “Capturing a specific amplifier setting with a photo allows for effortless recreation of that sound – a common practice among musicians.”
Innovative Time Paragraphs
A unique feature of Tape It is the “Time Paragraph,” which divides lengthy recordings into segments resembling text paragraphs. This design aims to improve the listening experience compared to the traditional single, horizontally scrolling recording.
Additional Capabilities
The app also incorporates smart waveforms, optional markers, and photo integration for easier navigation. Users can designate recordings as favorites for quick access. Full media center integration is also provided for convenient playback.
Premium Features and Future Development
A key feature is support for “Stereo HD” quality, leveraging the dual microphones found in newer iPhone models like the XS and XR. This enhanced audio quality is achieved through AI-powered sound improvement and noise reduction techniques developed internally. This functionality is available through a $20 annual premium subscription.
Tape It plans to further refine its AI capabilities and intellectual property to enhance sound quality. Future development includes collaborative features and compatibility with professional studio software, potentially positioning it within a similar market initially pursued by SoundCloud.
However, the team prioritizes perfecting the single-user experience before introducing collaborative elements. Walther states, “Ensuring the app is valuable for individual use is paramount; if it’s not enjoyable for personal use, collaboration features won’t be effective.”
Current Status and Availability
The Tape It team, comprised of three members, is currently based in Stockholm and Berlin and is self-funded. The app is available for free download on iOS, with plans for future support on Mac and Windows desktops. An Android version is not currently planned.