TagStation has reduced its pricing to $10/month per analog FM radio station, and the set-up fee will be eliminated, according to a release. However, monthly fees for HD Radio channels will remain at $35/month due to the higher cost of supporting HD Radio systems, although the set-up charges have been eliminated.
“These changes address the cost concerns raised by broadcasters in smaller markets and take them off the table,” said TagStation President Paul Brenner.
TagStation is the cloud-based, programming and sales content engine behind NextRadio. It allows radio stations to synchronize their radio broadcasts with album artwork, images, text and interactive touch points for visual display in the app. Stations can also build their station promotions, broadcast schedule content, and enhance advertising on NextRadio.
The Emmis subsidiary has also formed teams to assist client stations with creating visual and interactive content, noting the company’s research indicates that stations with full TagStation interactivity increase Average Time Spent Listening, as compared to stations only using the free logo service.
“With 60 million FM-enabled smartphones expected in 2016, next year is going to be a big growth year for NextRadio and the U.S. radio industry. Our research shows that a consistent, interactive NextRadio experience will be critical for supporting new AT&T and T-Mobile FM smartphone owners and for winning other carriers,” Brenner said. “So now is the time for all radio stations to get on board with TagStation, engage with their listeners in a new way and prepare for the new sales opportunities through NextRadio.”
