The contestants on Fox's reality singing competition will be able to sing original songs for the first time. Singer-producers Rodney Jerkins, Ron Fair, Timbaland and Alex Da Kid will mentor the contestants, who will be judged by Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.

In addition, the show is planning an online voting system that would include bonus content. The elimination process may also be swifter, with the Top 24 possibly going directly to either 12 or 15 contestants in the semifinals, although those decisions will still be made by viewers.

Contestants will also be able to release music as the season is in progress, rather than taking the summer months to record an album that drops in the fall as they have done in the past.

Other changes under discussion include changes to theme weeks that would allow singers to reflect music that best suit their voices; possible music videos; and significant changes to the show's set.

The 10th season of "American Idol" will premiere Jan. 10 on Fox.