A pot of musician goes digital with the Austin pilot program

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) – No money? No problem.

Austin, Texas, launches a pilot program that will allow fans to give digital advice to their favorite musicians.

According to the American newspaper Austin, the city provides 10 artists a DipJar, a device that allows fans to tip the musicians with a credit or debit card.

The chosen artists will test the technology for six months. They can gather advice during live shows or on tour.

Municipal officials hope the program will financially support local musicians and the city, which attracts visitors in part due to its internationally renowned music scene.

Mat Oldiges, the head of the Human Circuit, one of the selected groups, says that if tips are fewer than before, he thinks the fans still want to help the artists, but they can "just need that little motivation and access.

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Information from: Austin American Statesman, http://www.statesman.com