UPC and ISRC are both codes used in the music industry to identify and track recordings, but they serve different purposes.
UPC stands for Universal Product Code, and it is a unique 12-digit barcode assigned to a specific physical or digital product, such as a music album or a single track. The UPC code is used primarily for inventory and sales tracking purposes, and it identifies the specific product and its manufacturer, as well as providing information about its price, format, and other details. UPC codes are typically used for physical products sold in stores or online, and they are not used to identify individual tracks on an album.
ISRC, on the other hand, stands for International Standard Recording Code, and it is a unique 12-digit alphanumeric code assigned to each individual track on an album or single. The ISRC code is used primarily for tracking and royalty distribution purposes, and it identifies the specific recording, its performer, and its owner. ISRC codes are typically used for digital music releases, streaming, and other online uses, as well as for radio and TV broadcasting.
In summary, while UPC codes are used to identify physical and digital products, ISRC codes are used to identify individual recordings within those products, allowing for accurate tracking, reporting, and royalty payments for the use of specific recordings
