iHeartMedia, through its subsidiary RCS, has purchased Athens, Greece-based online audio technology company, Radiojar Information Technology S.A. (Radiojar).
iHeartMedia says this acquisition means the industry will be able to leverage the Radiojar cloud-based audio playout platform’s tools to combine the elements of broadcast radio and transition them into other audio platforms, such as music streaming and podcasts.
“iHeartMedia, and other RCS clients, will now have a platform to easily combine or parse individual audio elements such as DJ voice tracks, music and broadcast spots to create, manage, distribute and monetize streams, podcasts and other audio content in real-time from anywhere,” iHeartMedia stated in a release.
As part of the acquisition, Radiojar will also continue to provide tools that allow independent podcasters, radio stations and individuals to instantly create their own radio stations and broadcast from anywhere in the world.
“Complementing our recent announcements about our cloud-based scheduling, playout and disaster recovery services, this acquisition will help RCS bring an even wider range of sophisticated online broadcast tools to our customers,” said Philippe Generali, president and CEO, RCS. “In the near future, using cloud-based technology, it will be possible to launch a brand-new radio service across broadcast and digital within minutes of the original idea. The ultimate ‘pop-up’ radio station, if you will.”
This purchase, adds iHeartMedia, is the latest in its continued commitment in innovation across all areas of audio. The company also recently acquired Jelli, Inc. and Stuff Media LLC, which included the HowStuffWorks (HSW) podcasting business.
“We recognize that broadcast radio has a very unique set of programming tools that make listening a smoother and more enjoyable experience,” said Rich Bressler, president, COO and CFO for iHeartMedia, Inc. “These new capabilities will allow for the seamless nature that has only been available on radio to transition to other audio mediums including digital stations and podcasts.”
