News Articles From Days Gone ByCanadian Satellite Radio (CSR) has found a unique way to market their product.
(29 July 2005)
They've signed an agreement to market sat rads and service agreements through 63 London Drugs stores across Western Canada. Said CSR prez Stephen Tapp, "We see this as a powerful alliance with an outstanding regional retailer. We look forward to serving London Drugs customers with our exciting music, talk and entertainment service."
The number one satellite broadcaster put up some impressive numbers in its most recent financial report.
(28 July 2005)
XM announced second quarter revenue of $125 million, an increase of 136 percent over the $53 million reported during the same period last year. The revenue growth was driven by record second quarter net subscriber additions of 674,226, a 55 percent increase over the 418,449 added in the second quarter last year. The satcaster's net loss for the period was $146.6 million compared with $166.1 million during the second quarter last year. The company expects to have over 6 million happy XMers by the end of the year.
XM is teaming with Napster to provide an online digital music service for listening online and on a variety of MP3 players.
(27 July 2005)
"XM + Napster" will provide a single interface for accessing, purchasing, and managing music from both XM and Napster. It will be marketed by both companies and launched in the fourth quarter of this year. Said XM boss Hugh Panero, "Today, XM subscribers can effortlessly discover and listen to any kind of music, and soon they will be able to effortlessly access, purchase, and manage their music with 'XM + Napster' and the new XM/MP3 players."
Harley riders are occasionally X-rated.
(26 July 2005)
Now they can be XM-rated with the new Screamin' Eagle Ultra, the first motorcycle equipped with XM. The sat rad is a standard feature on he Ultra's Harmon/Kardon advanced audio system. Said XM veep, OEM, Paul Kirsch, "Both XM and Harley-Davidson represent freedom of choice and innovation. XM will now deliver the best in audio entertainment to a new generation of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts." XM can also be added as an accessory feature on the Harley-Davidson 2006 FLHX, FLHTC, FLTR and FLHTCU models.
Samsung is has announced a strategic alliance with XM to introduce its first XM-rated MP3 players.
(26 July 2005)
The deal involves the production of two flash memory players utilizing XM's connect-and-play technology. Both players have an XM home accessory kit to allow satellite radio reception, come in two storage capacity sizes, and should be available by the end of the year. XM boss Hugh Panero commented, "Samsung is known for its award-winning line of digital audio players, and we are proud to take the next step with them in the evolution of portable XM Satellite Radio products."
Starbucks is ready to serve up a little XM with the morning coffee, or perhaps just some XM-rated music.
(26 July 2005)
The java giant and the satcaster are teaming up to launch a new proprietary series of multi-artist music compilation CDs. The Hear Music(TM) XM Radio Sessions, Vol. 1, features tracks from both established and emerging artists and will be available exclusively at Starbucks company-operated locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. Said Starbucks Entertainment president Ken Lombard, "With this new CD series, we are realizing the potential of our alliance with XM Satellite Radio to create compelling, exclusive content for Starbucks customers."
In part because of the requirement to provide Canadian content programming XM partner Canadian Satellite Radio (CSR) is building a studio in Toronto.
(25 July 2005)
The studio is intended to house CSR's English-language channels. XM is not yet involved in financing the studio or other elements of the CSR infrastructure. The satcaster is waiting to see whether the investment is compelling enough given the restrictions of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
According to Billboard , Sirius and XM may soon be extending their programming delivery methods beyond automobiles and stereo systems.
(22 July 2005)
The result might well be an integrated digital music store. According to Gartner G2 analyst Laura Behrens, "In the next few generations, there will be ways to download and purchase songs straight off the satellite signal. Now that the chips are tinier, the devices smaller and the processing is more powerful, these guys are asking themselves what other services they can put onto their receivers that makes them even more compelling."
Howard Stern's getting Sirius doesn't necessarily mean that good taste is returning to terrestrial radio.
(22 July 2005)
He's apparently being replaced by former rocker David Lee Roth. The one time Van Halen vocalist is likely going to be teamed with comedian Adam Carolla in an act that will definitely not be sirius.
XM has scheduled a conference call to announce and discuss its second quarter 2005 financial results.
(21 July 2005)
The call, at 10:00 AM (ET) on Thursday, 28 July, can be accessed on (800) 374-0551 or via the XM website. The quarterly results are being posted to the website prior to the call.
The Sacramento Bee is reporting that retired Raiders receiver Tim Brown wants to become part of NASCAR as well as a broadcaster on Sirius.
(20 July 2005)
The third NFL player with 1,000 receptions is leaving his football career, in part, to become the first African American owner of a NASCAR racing team. Said Brown, "If NASCAR is going to truly be America's sport, everyone (from all races) has to be involved." In addition to joining Sirius, Brown is expected to be featured on the NFL weekend show on Fox.
As the Indian subcontinent joins the satellite radio community, companies from the region are developing products for the new medium.
(20 July 2005)
The latest is Epigon of Bangalore. They're currently testing a digital satellite radio that can receive both satellite and terrestrial signals.
According to a new report from Kagan Research the number of satellite radio subscriptions should grow to 46.
(19 July 2005)
8 million by 2014.The report cites growing consumer interest, low churn, new programming and exclusive automotive agreements as the reasons that revenue in satellite radio can be expected to grow to $7.6 billion during the same time period. The route to quick profits is not clear, however. Satellite radio can soon be expected to face stiffer competition from emerging technologies. As Kagan analyst Michael Buckley said, "As wireless technology expands and access to free music Web sites and on-demand services increases, satellite radio will lose potential customers to alternative sources in the battle for consumers' attention."
XM has announced that it has made a strategic investment of $25 million in WorldSpace common stock.
(19 July 2005)
In connection with the deal, the nation's leading satellite broadcaster will help develop WorldSpace satellite radio products, technology and distribution and supplier networks. XM will also have warrants to acquire $37.5 million in additional WorldSpace stock and an option to invest with WorldSpace in various countries around the world. Said XM Chairman Gary Parsons, "We look forward to becoming a strategic investor in WorldSpace's worldwide satellite radio system and advancing satellite radio technology and reach through our cooperative efforts."
According to Media Week , terrestrial broadcasters are slamming XM's recent deal to purchase WCS Wireless.
(19 July 2005)
They claim the agreement in inconsistent with the satellite broadcaster's FCC license, which intends the service to be national. "The proposed transaction is part of a long-standing pattern of deception by the satellite radio industry," wrote National Association of Broadcasters CEO Eddie Fritts in a letter to Congress dated 14 July. The acquisition of WCS wireless would grant XM access to local and regional spectrum licenses covering half of the U.S. population.
XM's Hot Import Nights (HIN) tour is coming to Seattle this month.
(15 July 2005)
Presented by Valvoline Synpower, the largest lifestyle custom car show in the nation is being presented at Stadium Expo on 30 July. The cars on display include the WELD S14 and the Blazing 7s, the nation's top 3 RX-7s from Jay Laub, Tony Yeh and Les Wong. The entertainment is by the X-Ecutioners and HIN's Glow-Go Girls.
Sirius and Sirenza have announced a new, ultra-low profile, high-performance antenna that is the thinnest ever produced for satellite radio.
(14 July 2005)
The new disc-shaped device is designed optimally to receive and amplify digital signals from satellites and ground-based repeaters. Said Sirius President of Operations and Sales Jim Meyer, "The introduction of this new, ultra-thin disc-shaped antenna is proof of our ability to provide customers with leading-edge technology to further enhance the Sirius listening experience."
In its continuing quest for more spectrum, XM is acquiring WCS Wireless, whose principal assets are wireless licenses in geographic areas covering 163 million people and 15 of the top 20 metropolitan markets throughout the United States.
(14 July 2005)
The licenses include 10 megahertz in the frequency bands adjacent to XM's satellite transmissions. The acquisition is expected to provide XM with the opportunity to expand its business to services including innovative video and data offerings. The deal calls for the owners of WCS Wireless, a private entity, to receive 5.5 million shares of XM common stock.
The New York Post is reporting that Sirius boss Mel Karmazin, in an apparent desire to return to his traditional past, is interested a bid for Disney's radio unit.
(14 July 2005)
It is reported that Karmazin and Disney CEO Bob Iger may have been discussing the acquisition at investment bank Allen & Co.'s annual gathering of media moguls in Sun Valley, Idaho. Disney has hired investment banks Bear Stearns and Goldman Sachs to oversee the sale of its ABC Radio division. Neither Sirius nor Disney spokespersons would comment on the potential deal.
XM, America Online, and AEG are joining with Live 8 producer Kevin Wall to create "Network Live," a multi-platform digital entertainment company for live programming.
(13 July 2005)
The new venture is dedicated to delivering live entertainment programming through the Internet, satellite and third party global media platforms like VOD, wireless and HDTV. Said Wall, "This joint venture will produce an enormous variety of live, original entertainment programs."
Whether hunting wild game in the Serengeti or backing out of their driveways, Land Rover drivers can finally get Sirius.
(13 July 2005)
The satcaster has announced that Land Rover is now offering its systems as a factory-installed option on 2006 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles. Both are expected to be available with factory-installed head units that display artist, song title and category.
The decision by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to permit satellite radio broadcasting continues to generate controversy in the Great White North.
(13 July 2005)
CHUM Ltd. and Astral Media Inc. are being joined by Radio 1540 , CJRT , Fairchild , O.K. , Newcap , Larche , Aboriginal Voices Radio , Rock 95 , Evanov Radio , and Radio-Nord in the filing of a notice to appeal the Governor in Council to set aside the CTRC's decision. The appeal is centered on Canadian broadcasting policies requiring Canadian content, multicultural interests, and Canadian ownership. Said CHUM Executive Vice President Paul Ski, "Irrespective of CHUM and Astral Media's interests as licensees, we do not believe that the regulatory framework created by these decisions allows for a sustainable broadcasting system."
In a national poll commissioned by XM baseball fans chose the 20 greatest baseball radio announcers.
(12 July 2005)
"Baseball seems like it is made for radio, and listening to the game is something that has brought families and friends together for decades," said baseball legend and XM host Cal Ripken. The poll, conducted to coincide with XM's broadcast of this year's All Star Game in Detroit identified the following broadcasters as the fans' favorites: Harry Caray, Vin Scully, Bob Uecker, Mel Allen, Dizzy Dean, Ernie Harwell, Joe Garagiola, Phil Rizzuto, Jack Buck, Curt Gowdy, Red Barber, Jack Brickhouse, Al MIchaels, Chuck Thompson , Harry Kalas, Bob Murphy, Rafael "Felo" Ramirez, Lindsey Nelson, Milo Hamilton, and Russ Hodges.
Air America is getting XM-rated.
(12 July 2005)
The progressive entertainment talk network featuring Al Franken, Randi Rhodes and Janeane Garofalo has announced a long-term partnership to make XM its exclusive satellite radio provider. As part of the deal, the on-air personalities are expected to take their show on the road for special live broadcasts in front of a studio audience at XM's Washington, D.C. home. Air America CEO Danny Goldberg said, "Our association with XM Satellite Radio is a major step in bringing a truly national voice to tens of millions of Americans who are sick of relying on conservative or middle of the road media for their news and political opinion."
XM is generating a little more cash for its shareholders.
(11 July 2005)
The company has declared a regular quarterly dividend on its 8.25% Series B Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock. The dividend is payable in shares of XM Class A Common Stock at a rate of $1.0313 per share of Series B Preferred owned.
While Sirius and XM are slugging it out in a marketplace with a population of under 300 million, Worldspace is cultivating a clientele of up to a billion.
(11 July 2005)
The world's biggest satcaster is planning an expansion in India with a $10 million (US) advertising campaign this year. It hopes to operate 1,000 retail outlets in the subcontinent, including 150 in Delhi, by the end of this year.
Satellite radio enthusiasts can get even more Sirius with Monster .
(8 July 2005)
The popular audio/video accessory manufacturer is introducing two very Sirius new products -- the Monster Sirius Home Antenna and the Monster Sirius Car Antenna. Said Head Monster Noel Lee, "Satellite radio is becoming incredibly popular and Sirius Satellite Radio is in the forefront of the market by bringing over 120 channels of programming to subscribers." The Monster home and car antennas sell for $49.95 and $59.95 respectively.
Just to show they're players in the Canadian arena, Canadian Satellite Radio (CSR) has announced the support of Les Trois Accords and singer-songwriter Stefie Shock to the tune of $100,000.
(8 July 2005)
The deal is part of CSR's initiative to help develop Canadian francophone artists on the international scene. Said CSR's Stephen Tapp, "We have chosen Les Trois Accords and Stefie Shock because they represent the vibrant and flourishing QuDebec music scene, which is already making waves in Europe."
Jumping on the multicultural bandwagon, ABC is hiring XM's Steve Harris to run its new multicultural programming division.
(8 July 2005)
Harris has been XM's veep for external programming, where he oversaw XM's Black History Month features. ABC Radio Network's Executive Vice President and General Manager Darryl Brown said of Harris, " Steve commands tremendous respect throughout the urban radio community, and I look forward to working closely with him to expand ABC's multicultural presence."
For those who just can't get enough of Live 8, XM is re-broadcasting highlights of the event that took place on 2 July.
(7 July 2005)
XM is planning to encore the best performances and interviews on "Live 8 Replay Weekends" starting on 9 July. Said XM's Eric Logan, "The Live 8 Replay Weekends will provide XM subscribers with plenty of opportunities to experience anything they might have missed the first time around from XM's comprehensive radio broadcast coverage of more than 55 hours of live performances across seven channels."
It's time to play ball at XM.
(6 July 2005)
As part of its lineup of major league baseball the satcaster is providing complete coverage of this year's All Star Game from Detroit. The XM MLB team is broadcasting from the Motor City throughout the break, from 9 July until 12 July. The team includes Cal Ripken, Rob Dibble, Kevin Kennedy and Larry Bowa and will be broadcasting from various venues including Comerica Park, the Cobo Center and the Detroit Mariott on MLB Home Plate (Channel 175). The big event takes place at 8:05 PM (ET).
XM partner Canadian Satellite Radio (CSR) is investing $100 million in infrastructure to support its operations.
(6 July 2005)
CSR has announced that Yves R. Hamel and Associates would conduct the drive testing required to implement its terrestrial repeater network. Sports mogul and CSR boss John Bitove said, "While we are still evaluating with XM the eight Canadian channels requested by the CRTC , the pressure from retailers and automotive manufacturers to commence service his fall has resulted in us beginning our major investments now." Consistent with this approach, CSR is announcing its sponsorship of Quebec musical talent Stefie Shock and Les Trois Accords .
The Institute for Policy Innovation (IPI) is bringing free market-oriented public policy commentary to XM.
(6 July 2005)
They're running a spot called "Stop the Raid, Start the Accounts." It provides a one minute policy explanation of why personal accounts should be established instead of allowing surplus Social Security funds to be spent by the government. Said IPI president Tom Giovanetti, "Satellite radio is the wave of the future, and IPI will be there to educate those listeners about important issues in the public policy debate."
Live from Latrobe it's the Rolling Rock XM guest DJ!
(5 July 2005)
The popular Pennsylvania brewery is sponsoring a "Win the Airwaves" promotion this summer in which participants get a chance at stardom on satellite radio by submitting "play lists" on rollingrock.com . A "Rock the Establishment" activation kit has also been created for Rolling Rock sponsored DJ nights in bars and clubs featuring XM-themed key chains, t-shirts, bumper stickers, headphones and other promotions. The campaign begins on 15 August and runs through 30 September.
Showing why it's the number one satcaster, XM added more than 640,000 new subscribers during the second quarter of 2005.
(5 July 2005)
There are now more than 4.4 million happy XMers. The subscriber gain represents a 53 percent increase compared with the same period last year. Said XM boss Hugh Panero, "This was the best second quarter in the history of XM. The momentum behind XM's subscriber growth is undeniable."
According to PC Magazine , Sirius is adding a time-shifting feature to its popular Sportster mobile satellite radio receiver.
(1 July 2005)
Users can now pause live broadcasts for time-shifting or review by pressing the Play/Pause button. The receiver can record approximately 44 minute of content, depending on the channel.
Despite Sirius plans for a 1 January start for Howard Stern, the shock jock may have other plans.
(1 July 2005)
The "King of All Media" says he might be off "free" radio by the end of summer, but not by his own choice. Stern says he suspects that Infinity Broadcasting might pull the plug sooner because of ratings. The problem is that potential sponsors won't be interested in ratings statistics collected in the fall. Therefore, it's in their best interest to get rid of Howard, Robin, Artie and the rest of the whole sick crew before the ratings period begins. "Technically, we're working for the summer, and then we're done here -- that's what I heard," said Stern.
A controversy continues to brew in Canada over the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) approval of satellite radio.
(1 July 2005)
The most recent incident involves claims by Indie Pool owner Gregg Terrence that 20,000 independent musical artists support the CRTC decision. This claim is denied by the Canadian Independent Record Production Association (CIRPA). At issue is the effect that satellite radio could have on the independence of Canadian artists, who would now have to compete for air time with American and other artists whose music would be beamed in from space. CIRPA executive director Cori Ferguson commented, "Most artists who use (the Indie Pool) do not cross-over with CIRPA's members, who have a hand in the release of a substantial number of all English Canadian content albums each year."