HLS+ is a new streaming technology from Super Hi-Fi, and Audacy’s 700+ online stations are in the process of integrating it.
According to Super Hi-Fi, HLS+ combines live, linear radio with interactivity and personalization, in the same audio stream, while ensuring compatibility with billions of existing devices.
HLS+ was developed on top of HLS, the HTTP live streaming video streaming protocol. It supports a range of metadata capabilities and is compatible with most playout and broadcast systems for FM, HD, DAB+ and online platforms.
“HLS+ ensures backward compatibility with countless existing devices worldwide that support HLS, including Amazon Alexa, iPhone, Android and many in-car entertainment systems,” Super Hi-Fi said. “HLS+ is advertising-ready, supporting numerous programmatic ad services and integrating seamlessly with traditional radio traffic systems.
It said that with HLS+, radio stations still sound and feel like traditional live linear radio streams, including full production and voice tracks.
“But the addition of new features will up-level the listening experience significantly,” Super Hi-Fi said. “Songs can now start right at the beginning. No more dropping into a random spot on the stream.”
The technology supports skipping on live radio streams, allowing consumers to move forward or backward to the head of a song, “with no remnant production creating a messy listening experience. Content can now be fully personalized.” As examples it listed weather reports delivered to each listener’s unique location, and sports breaks in which one listener hears about the Lakers while another hears about the Mets, from within the same linear stream.
Also, linear radio broadcasts can be delivered over the air with advertisements, while the same broadcast is delivered online with ads removed. “Both experiences will be perfect and seamless,” the company said.
HLS+ launched today with support from Telos Alliance, Barix, Orban, StreamGuys and Xperi, including its AIM app platform.
The announcement quoted Audacy EVP of Product John Pacino highlighting “the seamless blend of HLS+ interactivity.” Audacy’s own online stations will support HLS+ by the end of March, with most being available on March 12, according to the release.
The company also released a promotional video, see below.
