Friday is set to be the universal date for music releases, Radio 1 Chart Show to move days

26 February 2015, 17:45 | Written by Laurence Day

(News)

(Charli XCX)

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry has announced that from summer 2015, all new music releases - worldwide - would happen on a Friday.

This is apparently in part to halt the "frustration for consumers when music fans in other parts of the world can access new releases before them." Releases will be set to arrive at 00:01 on Friday, whichever time zone you live in.

It's unknown yet if this will affect staggered releases - such as Charli XCX's Sucker. While such releases will be released on a Friday, will it be the same Friday worldwide?

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry represents 1300 labels around the world, and has struck a deal with various unions, major retailers, audio streaming services and multinational conglomerates.

In related news, the BBC Radio 1 Chart Show has announced that it may move from its regular Sunday afternoon slot in the wake of the universal release date.

In a statement, the Official Charts Company said:

"Following the announcement that the record industry is moving to a synchronised global release day of Friday, we will also be looking to move the UK chart announcement day. Exact details are to be decided but Radio 1 will continue to be the home of the Official Chart."