Streaming media company Stingray, the parent of TuneIn, has announced a partnership with iM Media Labs.
It is making TuneIn available on the iM Media Hub, a vehicle-native platform that integrates radio, streaming, podcasts and other media in connected vehicles.
The companies said this integration enables drivers to access TuneIn content, including radio stations, through an OEM-branded in-vehicle experience, without requiring phone projection.
iM Media Labs says its offering is “designed to integrate with vehicle systems and adapt to each automaker’s brand, interface and business model.” It says the platform “gives automakers greater flexibility over the in-vehicle experience while helping content partners expand discovery, distribution and engagement.”
TuneIn CEO Rich Stern said in the announcement that the deal is part of TuneIn’s push to grow in the automotive sector. Stingray has also recently announced partnerships with Nissan and BYD Auto.
Stingray acquired TuneIn last year. [Read our profile story in which Stern talks about its ambitions to be “a global audio powerhouse.”]
The companies said the iM Media Hub aggregates audio content from various providers into one personalized experience. It also offers AI-based recommendations.
TuneIn “Favorites” and “Recently Played” features carry over so a listener can move between devices easily.
Under the agreement, eligible new users accessing TuneIn through the iM Media Hub are offered a free trial of TuneIn Premium.
Earlier this year iM Media also announced a partnership in which AT&T Connected Car integrates iM Media Hub with AT&T’s 5G connectivity.
