Emmis to Launch NextRadio for Smartphones in 2013

Nov 8, 2012 7:00 AM, By Doug Irwin, CPBE DRB

Indianapolis Nov 7, 2012 – Emmis is introducing a new receiver application for FM and HD Radio-enabled smartphones. The app, called NextRadio, is being marketed to the wireless industry and is being characterized as “the best over-the-air radio listening experience on the smartphone.”

Said Emmis CTO Paul Brenner: “NextRadio leverages the efficiency and scalability of broadcast radio enhanced by the phone’s data channel to deliver an interactive artist and ad experience. With other features like enhanced synchronous ad types including SMS integration and couponing, song tagging capabilities, and social integration, NextRadio stands out as a truly innovative mobile experience.”

Brenner also pointed out that with NextRadio, a smartphone can be used for news and information during times of emergency. Hurricane Sandy provided the most recent example of radio being a lifeline to citizens when other communication networks suffer disaster related outages.

NextRadio is in final beta testing preparing for 2013 launch on several smartphones and carrier networks.

U.K. Government Will Announce Digital Radio Switchover in 2013

UK digital listening has increased to nearly one-third of all listening and one-quarter of new cars are now fitted with digital radio as standard….

Pandora Sues ASCAP Over Licensing Fees

The streamer is asking the court to set “reasonable” license fees through 2015….