AT&T Inc. could very well be looking at getting into satellite radio, at least that's what it seems like based on two recent patent applications published recently.

The patents are for entire satellite radio systems with two-way "feedback" capabilities (remember, Sirius and XM are one-way communications). The receiver would provide information to a centralized system, allowing for additional functionality like requesting additional information or purchasing a song over the air.

The receiver, in either mobile or fixed form, is connected to a network via broadband, telephone line, wireless, etc.

Since this is for an entire system, including satellite(s), you have to wonder what kind of business case AT&T is building for this. Would they deploy their own satellite? Or just use an existing infrastructure? We can only begin to guess.

[Satellite Radio TechWorld]