GoKawiilRIAA data shows CD revenue jumped 58.6% in H1 2026 after 2025 slump
The RIAA's latest report shows CDs generated $171.1 million in the first half of 2026, up 58.6% from the same period in 2025, with unit sales rising 45.7% to 17.5 million. That growth reverses a decline seen throughout 2025, when full-year CD revenue and units both fell versus 2024.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The rebound fits a broader Gen Z-driven revival of simpler, pre-smartphone tech like dumbphones, landlines, and digital cameras, reflecting a desire for less algorithm-driven, more intentional media consumption. It also signals a real business opportunity, as startups building retro-style devices and thrift resale platforms tap into nostalgia for tech experiences younger consumers never had.
- CD revenue rose 58.6% and units sold rose 45.7% in H1 2026 versus H1 2025.
- This follows a 2025 downturn where CD revenue fell 7.8% and units dropped 11.6% year-over-year.
- The resurgence mirrors wider retro-tech interest among Gen Z in dumbphones, landlines, and vintage gadgets.
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See Sony CD Player CMT-SBT100 on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: techcrunch.com — Sarah Perez, 2026-09-04
Published there as: “CD sales are making an unexpected comeback amid a retro tech boom”
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