Emeril Lagasse is joining the ranks of countless other celebrities on the satellite radio dial with a new radio show, Cooking with Emeril, which will launch on the week of November 30th.The live call-in show (which is Emeril's first) will...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. has unveiled their latest TV ad spot, which CEO Mel Karmazin labels as the "most aggressive brand marketing campaign" in the company's history.The TV commercial is accompanied by a microsite as well as customized web pages...

   BMW has given its Sirius satellite radio factory option a little love with an expanded channel line-up and a price reduction for 2010 model vehicles (excluding 5 Series, 6 Series, and X3). Plus BMW has improved the user interface...

Just like Acura, GM, Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Volvo in the past; Chrysler is now the latest automaker to jump aboard offering a free satellite radio trial to Certified Pre-Owned vehicle owners.The question now remains: where's Ford?...

The XM SkyDock won't be available until October 18th, and the iPhone App that makes it work isn't be available until October 11th... but apparently some retailers didn't get the message and started stocking shelves with it.Let's just hope their...

The XM SkyDock - arguably the most anticipated satellite radio receiver this holiday season - is expected to be available for shipment from select retailers on October 18th, according retailer TSS Radio (via SiriusBuzz).Some retailers have begun taking pre-orders of...

Media mogul John Malone came to the rescue earlier this year by providing a bridge loan that effectively saved Sirius XM Radio Inc. from bankruptcy. But was this move part of a bigger plan for the satellite radio medium?Recent activity...

One of the key components of the new Sirius FM-5 satellite, which was just recently put into service, is the satellite's massive advanced antenna reflector made by Harris.The concept of focusing the Sirius FM-5 signal on areas of peak population...

Three years ago we first learned that Sirius was preparing a new geostationary satellite called the Sirius FM-5. In May, the Sirius FM-5 satellite was delivered and shortly afterwards the satellite was launched on June 30th. And just recently Sirius...

It's a recent trend we're seeing more and more of: first Mercedes and BMW, then Audi and now Volvo will be offering a 3-month free trial of Sirius Satellite Radio with every properly equipped Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sold.The 3-month free...

If you are following me on Twitter you've seen these photos already, but for everyone else - here's upclose and personal pics of the upcoming XM SkyDock satellite radio controller for your iPhone/iPod Touch....

Just like recent announcements from Mercedes and BMW, Audi will now offer an introductory 3-month trial offer of the "Sirius Everything" satellite radio package with the purchase of all Sirius-equipped certified pre-owned Audi vehicles sold in the U.S.This news...

George Taylor Morris, most recently known as the daily morning host on XM Satellite Radio's Deep Tracks channel and the primary host of the Artist Confidential series, has passed away at age 62 from throat cancer....

Sirius XM Radio Inc. President and Chief Content Officer, Scott Greenstein, will continue to serve the company through July 27, 2013, according to a filing with the SEC.Greenstein has served at this position since May 2004....

Today, the "U.S. Music Royalty Fee" for Sirius XM Radio goes into effect. We first heard about this price increase nearly two months ago when an internal document was leaked out to the public.The company says the increase in subscription...

Over the course of nearly 5 years, I've dedicated my life to Orbitcast and the satellite radio industry. I've done everything I've could to try to provide news about what's going on in the industry, as well as updates on...

New owners of Sirius-equipped Certified Pre-Owned BMW and Mercedes-Benz vehicles will start to get a 3-month trial subscription of the "Sirius Everything" package. Of course, Sirius will continue to be offered as a factory-installed feature with 1-year of the "Sirius...

The Sirius FM-5 Satellite, Sirius XM's latest addition to their satellite constellation, is scheduled to launch at 1:10am local time (3:10pm ET) on July 1st from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.The launch was originally targeted for a June 30th launch, but "minor...

Jon Zellner, currently senior vice president of music programming at Sirius XM Radio Inc. will be jumping ship to rival Clear Channel Communications Inc. on July 20th, according to Clear Channel.He will be replaced by Steve Blatter, according to Sirius...

Customers who purchase a Sirius-equipped "Certified Pre-Loved" Volkswagen vehicle will now be getting a 3-month trial offer of the "Sirius Everything" package.It's all part of a continuing effort to access potential subscribers purchasing pre-owned vehicles. XM currently has a deal...

The Sirius XM iPhone App has been downloaded more than a half-million times as of Sunday night, according to an internal company memo obtained by Orbitcast."That is one of the fastest download rates by any App," writes Scott Greenstein, President...

After what feels like decades, we finally have an iPhone App for satellite radio. But there's obviously a few missing features that leave us hanging. Hell, there's a lot of missing features (didn't uSirius StarPlayr do all of this already?...

But will it last?As of this morning, the Sirius XM iPhone App remains as the #1 free music App, and now has leap-frogged its way to the #3 top free App overall. It's good to see, especially since the iPhone...

Despite not having Howard Stern in the lineup, the Sirius XM iPhone App still managed to beat out other apps to become the #1 most downloaded free music App.What's more, it reached that point mid-day today - only 12 hours...

Check out a video demo of the Sirius XM iPhone App below:...

The official Sirius XM iPhone App went live at midnight Eastern time today, but it's missing one of the top reasons why people have signed up to satellite radio - Howard Stern. Opie & Anthony's The Virus channel is available,...

Yesterday, news broke that the Sirius XM iPhone App will be going live on June 18th, based off of a customer service email. The news first hit SatWaves, then made its way to TUAW and then Engadget. I had waited...

Satellite radio subscribers will be seeing their subscription price grow by nearly $2 a month thanks to increased music royalty rates, according to leaked internal company document.Orbitcast has confirmed the U.S. music royalty rates will be passed along to subscribers...

It's been nearly three years since Sirius announced it would augment its satellite constellation to include a geostationary satellite, and now the new bird is preparing to launch.The Sirius FM-5 Satellite was successfully delivered to the Baikonur Cosmodrome earlier this...

Despite several last-ditch efforts, Chrysler LLC will file for bankruptcy today, President Obama said, a move that was strongly threatened last month. The Chapter 11 protection filing will spark a "surgical" reorganization process that will span an estimated 30-60 days,...

The Obama administration has forced out General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner on Sunday, and threatened to allow Chrysler to go into bankruptcy if it cannot reach a deal with Fiat.In a summary of its findings, the government's automotive task force...

XM Radio Online continues to have problems - this time, it seems that a massive number of people are being affected. There's no solutions being presented, no word from the company. Nothing. The subscriber communications continue to fall apart, and...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. is getting ready for the launch of the Sirius FM-5 satellite, the latest bird in the satellite radio's roster meant to improve the signal of the service....

In a latest earnings call with analysts, Sirius XM Radio Inc. CEO Mel Karmazin said the "doom and gloom" about the company "had a tremendous impact on the consumer buying our product."That "doom and gloom" doesn't just percolate among investors...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. made a mysterious one-time payment to an unknown programming provider amounting to a total of $27.5 million, according to the company's annual report.The question that BusinessWeek asks is: who was that provider?...

A controversial plan to hike up taxes on "nuisance" items such as non-diet soda, manicures and satellite radio has been removed by New York State leaders today. Phew! That was a close one....

CNBC's Maria Bartiromo interviewed Liberty Media's president and CEO Greg Maffei yesterday to gather some insight into the decision to invest in Sirius XM Radio Inc. and to learn about the company's future prospects.Maffei sounds highly optimistic (he sort...

Here's a little present for Pioneer Inno owners: a version of the v2.11 firmware with the FM transmitter turned on. For those who didn't know, the Pioneer Inno initially had its built-in FM modulator turned on for times when...

A new patent by XM Satellite Radio (it was filed back in August 2007 - before merging with Sirius) has recently been published at the U.S Patent & Trademark office, and it features some extremely interesting technology.As always, remember that...

On Friday, Sirius XM Radio Inc. sent out an email with the subject line teasing "Something big is coming..." adding that we will find out next week why Sirius or XM make more sense than ever....

On Friday, Sirius XM Radio Inc. announced that they closed the $530 million investment deal with Liberty Media, giving the satellite radio provider about a year's breathing room before having to worry about debt again. Additionally, there's now some cash...

That's the word from a recent Wall Street Journal article, which points out that the allure of Sirius XM Radio Inc. to media moguls like John Malone could be all tax losses that the company carries with it....

Satellite veteran Charlie Ergen put forth a proposal that was larger than Liberty Media's offer in return for a 51% stake in satellite radio provider Sirius XM Radio Inc., according to a report by the Wall Street Journal citing people...

So now that John Malone has bailed out Sirius XM Radio Inc. with an injection of $530 million dollars this year, what does this mean for consumers? How will this affect the 20-or-so million satellite radio subscribers?...

DONE DEAL: Sirius XM Radio Inc. and Liberty Media Corporation have reached an agreement in which Liberty would invest an aggregate amount of $530 million into Sirius XM, in return for an equity stake in the company....

That's the cliffhanger question on everyone's mind this morning. A decision by Sirius XM Radio Inc. needs to be made before close-of-business today, and the latest reports vary on what the terms are.The Financial Times is reporting that Liberty Media...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. and Liberty Media Inc. near a deal late Monday though negotiations still remain over the final details, reports the Wall Street Journal citing people familiar with the matter....

With all this talk about debt and takeovers, it's easy to look only this through the eyes of shareholders and the company. But how would a Sirius XM bankruptcy affect subscribers? According to analysts, consumers can breathe easy....

It's a question that I've been asked via email, and I think it's a good one that needs to be discussed publicly. Would a Democratic-controlled FCC (currently headed up by Michael Copps, pictured above) allow for an EchoStar takeover of...

I've been giving a lot of thought lately about how Satellite Radio has matured as a technology and media phenomenon. Sure, we've heard all the talk about how the industry has grown faster than satellite TV, cellular and even CD...

Oh sure, we've known about the Sirius XM price increases for a while, and even got confirmation from Customer Service reps, but those CS folks are hardly valid sources of information.But nothing says "official" like a good ol' website page....

Word has come out over recent days that Sirius XM Radio Inc. is planning a price increase for multiple satellite radio subscription packages, according to a report on Digital Radio Central. Additionally, Orbitcast's own sources have received word confirming these...

While the Sirius XM Radio "booth" at CES might have been a lackluster showing, the off-site display was far more impressive. But Sirius XM still managed to maintain a presence on the LVCC floor thanks to their partnership with Audiovox,...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. might not have had much of a presence at the Las Vegas Convention Center here at CES 2009, but they were exhibiting their latest devices - including the MiRGE and some new Internet Radio solutions -...

OK, so maybe the Sirius XM booth at CES 2009 is a teeny-tiny little bit disappointing, but they put to good use some signage space outside of the Las Vegas Convention Center....

And there it is. Sirius XM Radio's booth at CES 2009. It's not a booth at all actually, it's just private meeting space. Yet another sign of stringent cost cutting measures being put into effect....

As promised Sirius XM Radio Inc. today unveiled the world's first interoperable satellite radio - entitled the MiRGE. In addition to the new satellite radio, which will receive both Sirius and XM signals, the company announced a new subscription package...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. said on several occasions that the merging of broadcast operations was going to be an ongoing process, and now Orbitcast is hearing that another round of channel changes will be going into effect sometime around January...

It's that time again. This week CES 2009 will begin, and Orbitcast will be there in full force delivering up-to-the-minute live coverage of the world's largest technology event....

There's no doubt that 2008 has been an incredible and trying year for satellite radio, but for Orbitcast - and for me, personally - it has been the biggest year, ever. And so I just want to give a heartfelt...

Audiovox just announced that it reached an initial agreement with Sirius XM Radio Inc. to become the principal supplier of Sirius satellite radio products to aftermarket retailers. Combined with its already existing agreement with XM, this effectively makes Audiovox the...

Sirius XM Radio will have a massive lineup of special New Year's Eve music, entertainment and sports programming to celebrate the coming of 2009 - including the debut of a special "Party City" channel....

The New York Times recapped the current state of Sirius XM Radio Inc. in a slanted article over the holidays, painting the service and its business model in a not-so-positive light. Of course, the Times isn't without its own obstacles,...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. has been selected by BusinessWeek as one of its "World's Most Influential Companies" for 2008....

Sirius XM Radio Inc. at today's shareholder meeting highlighted its strong subscriber growth despite slowing auto sales. Indeed, the company went so far as to provide longterm guidance for total subscribers into 2013....

Sirius XM Radio Inc. today at the shareholder meeting disclosed that will have reduced its headcount significantly by the end of 2008....

Chrysler said today it will be shutting down all vehicle production for an entire month, starting this Friday....

A mass-cancellation effort mounted by unhappy subscribers of Sirius XM has been halted thanks to the company returning The Strobe and Backspin to the channel lineup....

Orbitcast has confirmed that Sirius XM Radio are bringing back two music channels: The Strobe and Backspin. Scott Greenstein said this was done in response to "overwhelming passion" from subscribers....

Orbitcast is hearing rumblings that there could be a possible return of one or more channels to the dial. It's still very vague right now - so I'm marking this one as a "rumor" - but the implication is that...

The annual shareholder meeting is only a couple days away, and Sirius XM Radio Inc. is facing a trifecta of negativity surrounding the company. Shareholders are angry. Subscribers are angry. And pundits are opining over the death of a medium....

Jason Millard from Millard Software is now part of the NiceMac team, the folks behind the StarPlayr and StarLight line of satellite radio applications.Millard Software is known for it's uSirius and uXM applications (both of which come in iPhone versions,...

An U.S. District Judge has dismissed the shareholder lawsuit which was led by Save Sirius founder Michael Hartleib against Sirius XM Radio Inc.But the case is not yet over....

Worldspace UK, a separate business unit from WorldSpace Inc., has liquidated and shut down its London uplink facility last month....

Sirius XM Radio Inc. CEO Mel Karmazin said that he forecasts double-digit revenue growth in Q4 and is confident the company can refinance debt due in 2009, at the Reuters Media Summit today in New York."The merger has made us...

Mac users can rejoice now that the latest version of StarLight for Mac has been released from the folks behind the StarPlayr line of online satellite radio players. This is a powerful Sirius Internet Radio client wrapped in a slick...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. will be launching a free "Best of Both" promotion starting on Black Friday and will join together its advertising efforts under a single unified strategy, according to TWICE.The company will give customers three free months of...

If you've been following the evolution of StarPlayr, you saw that first it was just an idea, then it became a reality (with Windows software and an iPhone app); so now the next step is to monetize on it all.Introducing...

Scott Greenstein, President and Chief Content Officer at Sirius XM Radio Inc., doesn't have a job that involves easy decisions. Not only does he oversee what music, sports and talk programming nearly 19 million subscribers get to choose from. But...

More layoffs are being reported in the halls of Sirius XM Radio Inc., presumably in addition to the 30-or-so staffers that were let go last week.And add that on top of the estimated 100 employees that have been "rightsized" so...

Toyota Motor Corp said yesterday that it will stop all of its North American factories for two full days next month.At the same time, Nissan Motor Co. provided a dismal prediction of the auto industry's near-term future to the media....

There's no doubt that things must be pretty hectic over at Sirius XM Radio Inc., but Wednesday's channel switchover was wrought with confusion and miscommunication, and I'm amazed the company even let this happen.If I was management, I would...

More personnel cuts are expected to occur today at XM, that's on top of the estimate one-hundred staffers that were cut last month, reports DCRTV.Additionally, Radio-Info reports that some terminated employees are being asked to sign one-year long Non-Compete Agreements...

The combined Sirius XM Radio Inc. channel lineup, scheduled to go live this Wednesday, was officially made public in a full-page spread in Friday's USA Today. A scan of the USA Today full-page ad was uploaded by maxoct97 to...

Rumor has it that Directed Electronics and Sirius XM Radio Inc. will be parting ways next year, Orbitcast has learned.DEI Holdings Inc. (formally Directed Electronics Inc.) will no longer be the satellite radio distribution source for Sirius, according to people...

Merger talks between General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC may intensify this week following last night's win by Barack Obama, according to reports. Combining the companies would require $10 to $12 billion in additional cash to mesh operations, said Citigroup's...

U.S. Auto Sales, lead by General Motors, took a nosedive last month resulting in the lowest levels in 17 years.Total sales were down in 32 percent for the industry. GM fell an astounding 45 percent, Chrysler plummeted 35 percent, Ford...

Following audio from XM Escape, more audio has come in confirming the November 12th channel switchover. Listen below: The question remains whether Sirius XM Radio will let their subscribers know the exact channel lineup well before next week's launch...

An on-air promotion broadcast on XM Escape has confirmed the November 12th date rumored this morning. Additionally, a jock on Sirius' The Pulse also announced the date, according to an Orbitcast commenter. Listen to the full audio below: What's...

Following last week's rumor of the combining of Sirius XM Radio Inc. music channels, comes a new batch of rumors that the launch date of the merged channels will come in less than two-weeks.Instead of the revised date of November...

We are at a crossroads right now. Satellite Radio has grown from a fledgling media to the single largest subscription service in existence, that is, second only to Comcast.This is a defining moment for the company. The future of...

Led Zeppelin is returning to the satellite radio airwaves, this time on both Sirius and XM Radio, starting on November 1st.A dedicated Led Zeppelin channel first debuted on XM nearly a year ago in the form of "XM Led" only...

A lot of people have been asking about the Halloween programming lineup for both Sirius and XM, well here it is...Sirius XM Radio Inc. will be dedicating two uninterrupted channel, Sirius Scream (ch 113) and XM Gore (ch 134) devoted...

The combined music offering by Sirius XM Radio Inc. is expected to be delayed by nearly two weeks, according to anonymous sources.The new channel lineup, originally rumored for a November 5th release date, is said to include 50 music...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. chief Mel Karmazin said yesterday that the combined satellite radio service technology in cars could take as long as 15 years to become available.The comment was made at the Convergence 2008 conference in Detroit, and the...

Gee, who saw this coming? In what can hardly be called a surprise, ailing satellite radio provider WorldSpace Inc. has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.Its board determined the bankruptcy filing was necessary for the company to raise sufficient funds to...

Rumors have emerged that Sirius XM Radio Inc. may be holding two additional rounds of layoffs for programmers and talent, according to a report from Taylor on Radio-Info.If true, the layoffs would be in addition to the latest round of...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. is revving up for the Holiday Season with rebates on eligible radios and an offer to get the "Best of" packages free for a limited time.The Holiday promotion, which will be officially launched in coming days,...

Reports are coming in that Sirius XM Radio Inc. is laying off approximately 80 staffers, a number that is a bit higher than previously reported, but one that sounds "pretty solid" a D.C. source tells Radio-Info.The immediate impact will be...

At least 50 staffers were reportedly laid off ahead of schedule at Sirius XM Radio Inc. today, accelerating the company's termination plans due to leaked information. According to Radio & Records, the mayhem began yesterday, when an employee accessed the...

Only days after being scheduled to present at the Media and Money conference, Sirius XM Radio Inc. CEO Mel Karmazin is also expected to keynote at the Convergence 2008 conference.The Convergence 2008 conference, hosted by Chrysler, runs from October 20-22...

With all the merger discussions, business concerns, and changes going on in the industry, sometimes we forget about what satellite radio is truly supposed to affect: Your Life.Deep down, the purpose of this medium isn't about just the wizbang techie...

Since the Best of Sirius and Best of XM packages were released, there has been a level of confusion over some issues surrounding the new "Best of" subscription packages: Why aren't all satellite radios compatible with the Best of packages?Will...

The Sirius Starmate 5 has made its debut on Sirius' website - which serves as the official unveiling of the world's first A La Carte satellite radio.The features of the Starmate 5 Dock and Play radio haven't changed since info...

An Orbitcast reader has successfully subscribed to the "Best of Sirius" on his XM account. He was able to do it online, even though the site appears to be running extremely slowly right now. Thanks Rob!...

Reports continue to stream in over the "Best of" shenanigans. Indeed, after millions of Sirius subscribers received a channel update this morning, many have reported seeing two XM-related categories showing up.The first channel category is simply entitled "XM" seen...

Looks like the "Best of" leakage is continuing. Now the "Best of Sirius" channels have appeared on the XM Radio Online internet radio service.You can't listen to them, but they're therre.Thanks Moose!...

Reports are flying in that the Best of XM is up on Sirius' website now (screen shot above), ahead of what I would assume would be an official announcement from Sirius XM Radio Inc.You can see full details on the...

Reports have come in of the "Best of" Sirius channel logos are showing up on the XM Satellite Radio service, and someone even snapped off a few photos of them in action.As far as we know, the "Best of" services...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. Senior VP of Music Programming Jon Zellner sent out an email to employees today announcing the company's new music programming executives.Here's the rundown:Kid Kelly (Sirius) is named VP of Pop/Dance/UrbanGregg Steele (Sirius) becomes the VP of...

A recent Associated Press report shows that XM Satellite Radio Inc spent $240k on lobbying in the second quarter of 2008. Meanwhile, Orbitcast has learned from recent disclosure reports with the House clerk's office that Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. spent...

Delphi ranked at the top of the AM/FM single CD player/satellite radio category for JD Power & Associates' 2008 Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study.Delphi nearly won a second JD Power award for AM/FM multi-CD changer/satellite radio, but was bested by...

Shares of a satellite radio provider surged Friday after it reached an agreement to defer its debt payment, and no, we're talking not about Sirius XM Radio Inc.Indeed it was Washington D.C.-based Worldspace Inc. that jumped up more than 101%...

At the Merrill Lynch Media Conference today, Mel Karmazin CEO of Sirius XM Radio Inc., will unveil that the "Best of" Sirius and XM packages will be launched on October 6th, according to the slides released prior to the event.The...

Well, it's not so "new" actually, but the "refreshed" Sirius XM sales team will include current Sirius managers Mike Roberts and Tom Steckbeck, according to a Sirius internal memo. Which XM counterparts are leaving as a result of the move...

Over the years there has been a slow, but fruitful, evolution of applications that play Sirius Internet Radio and XM Radio Online. From various widgets (Yahoo, Vista, you name it), to dedicated players (like XaMp), there has been a constant...

Chris "Mad Dog" Russo will be hosting a special preview show live from the ESPN Zone in NYC tomorrow. The preview edition of his new daily sports talk show will air ahead of the September 15th launch date, this Thursday,...

Mel Karmazin will be speaking at the 2008 Merrill Lynch Media Fall Preview Conference in Marina del Rey, CA on Tuesday, September 9th.A live audio webcast of the presentation will be available here. Karmazin is set to speak at around...

Even with all the initial hype and excitement about podcasts, the growth rate of the medium has slowed significantly according to Pew Internet & American Life Project. Nearly one in five (19%) adult internet users say they have downloaded a...

When Mel Karmazin came on board as CEO of Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. in November 2004, the company had about 700,000 subscribers. Today, after a grueling 18 month merger process and relentless opposition from broadcasters, Karmazin finally finds himself heading...

U.S. automakers are expected to report big declines in August domestic sales despite stepped-up incentives, reports the Wall Street Journal citing a report by J.D. Power & AssociatesStill, J.D. Power & Associates expects sales in the closing days of the...

In a interview with the New York Post, Sirius XM Radio Inc. CEO Mel Karmazin said that, "We're going to be the most successful company in radio. We're going to be bigger than Clear Channel because we're growing and they're...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. CEO Mel Karmazin told investors during yesterday's conference call that interoperable radios will be available ahead of the nine-month deadline mandated by the FCC."We have an FCC deadline," said Karmazin. "You should assume that we will...

Sirius XM Radio has chosen the executives who will lead the newly merged company's programming divisions, according to a report by All Access.According to All Access, the executive programming team will be:Jon Zellner (from XM) will be SVP/Music ProgrammingJeremy Coleman...

Following the successful merger between Sirus Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Inc., chief executive Mel Karmazin hinted that he would consider selling the newly minted company in a recent interview with the New York Times.Karmazin told the Times...

According to the J.D. Power and Associates, growth in consumer demand for high-tech features in new vehicles has led to a significant increase in market penetration for satellite radio and navigation systems. The 2008 Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study, released...

Out with the old, in with the new. Joseph Clayton, Chairman of Sirius Satellite Radio Inc., has stepped down from the position and Gary Parsons has taken his place as Chairman of Sirius XM Radio Inc.The number of directors on...

Mel Karmazin recently held a town hall company meeting to talk about the future of Sirius XM Radio, and below is the full audio from the event.Karmazin talks about the duplicate channels/programming, the future of the company, the health of...

Sirius XM Radio Inc. CEO Mel Karmazin announced the five-person senior exectutive team in an internal memo issued on Thursday.The executive team for Sirius XM Radio will be: Dara Altman as Executive VP/Chief Administrative Officer David Frear as Executive...

Mel Karmazin, CEO of Sirius XM Radio Inc., continued his rounds today with an appearance on CNBC.It's a good interview, nothing that we haven't heard before, but it's nice to hear it again. Main takeaway that Mel appears to be...

With the Sirius and XM merger over, the Miami Herald wants to know if you think that satellite radio is worth the price of $13/month. Do you prefer free radio or is it worth paying for the premium programming that...

Lee Abrams, former Chief Creative Officer at XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc., gave some hints to the Wall Street Journal about possible programming changes that would occur post-merger.While neither XM or Sirius will comment about programming changes, Abrams (who resigned...

Sirius has announced financial guidance for 2009 assuming the completion of the merger of Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.Based on the preliminary analysis:  Total synergies, net of the costs to achieve such synergies, for the...

C3SR, the broadcaster-funded organization with addresses located at a UPS Store, is questioning the decision-making process of the FCC. The group claims that the concessions offered by Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. "remain a mystery."That's,...

Senator Sam Brownback (R-KS) has accused Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. chief executive Mel Karmazin of providing misleading testimony to Congress, according to the New York Post.Brownback yesterday sent a letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) asking...

As expected, Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. have fired back at claims by the NAB-supported group, C3SR, that the companies intentionally violated FCC rules by not bringing interoperable radios to market.The group further calls...

This video is picking on Sirius specifically, but the same thoughts can be applied to XM. The main question is: is satellite radio a doomed business model as the speakers seem to think? Do the content providers really have all...

According to various sources, the supply of XM Satellite Radio's retail products appears to be running thin, and some products have even run to the end of their life.The RoadyXT, once seen as a technological accomplishment when it was unvealed...

This video, which appears to be from a Best Buy security camera, features three girls sampling a satellite radio display... that is, until Mr. Geek Squad joins in on the party. (Add your caption in the comments.)...

Would the Department of Justice have approved the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. under the Obama administration? Some antitrust lawyers don't seem to think so."It's generally understood that if Obama wins, that the...

Sirius' recent television ad spots, and now print ads, have reportedly asked people to "join over 17 million Sirius listeners" - which begs the question... where does this number come from?The latest subscriber numbers show Sirius at 8.6 million subscribers,...

Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. CEO Mel Karmazin told investors during yesterday's earnings call that if the Federal Communications Commission imposes conditions that are too harsh, then the company will not go through with the deal."If it turns out that...

The founder of Sirius Satellite Radio, Martine Rothblatt, was profiled recently by the Associated Press in a rare interview.Martine Rothblatt explained to the AP that her 1980 MBA thesis at UCLA was essentially the blueprint for her first company, PanAmSat,...

U.S. auto sales fell sharply in April, leading some automakers to suggest that industry-wide annual sales could fall to the lowest levels in more than a decade and a half.General Motors posted an incredible 23 percent decline in sales, led...

Sirius and XM have to extend their merger agreement, again. This time, though, they're not messing around with any deadlines (since the FCC sure isn't) and so they've decided to extend the merger agreement indefinitely.The two companies have agreed not...

While speculation abounds about whether the upcoming Sirius Starmate 5 will have the capability to receive both Sirius and XM, there's one piece of the puzzle that was missed... the ability to receive A La Carte channels.As a refresher: Sirius-XM...

Yesterday, Arbitron released its Fall 2007 ratings for Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio. Below are some key takeaways from the ratings report, but check back later when I explain why Arbitron's ratings are all wrong (well, for satellite...

General Motors said yesterday that the US market slowdown had led to a sales decline that has given Toyota an early lead for this year's global auto sales.For the first-quarter, Toyota capitalized on growth in China and Europe as GM...

A merger between Sirius and XM might lead to "more choice and better prices" for consumers, but many record label executives are concerned about the merger's implications, according to a recent Reuters article. Some label promotion representatives polled by Billboard...

It looks like Sirius Satellite Radio has created a YouTube channel dedicated to the Sirius Stiletto (and other Sirius devices).The channel itself is nicely customized, complete with Favorite videos (including an Orbitcast one) and matching colors. But what really shines...

Not being one to avoid making enemies, Tim Robbins took the opportunity of his keynote speech at the NAB Show in Vegas. "We don't want any kind of reporting outside the soundbite," said Robbins. "I don't know about you, but...

Last week, XM started a page for XM Radio Mobile for BlackBerry. It's a neat page, with some quick styling, you can check it out here.Having a Facebook page is a simple and useful social media engagement tool. Afterall, when...

Even though most of the news surrounding Sirius and XM revolves around the merger, a recent Arbitron and Edison Media Research study, "Infinite Dial: Radio's Digital Platforms" (PDF) found that awareness has remained flat for the past three years.Indeed, while...

The merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. could likely see approval from the FCC within 2-4 weeks, says analyst Robert Peck at Bear Stearns. Additionally, Peck says that investors may be too concerned...

The National Associations of Broadcasters spent nearly $9 million to lobby Capitol Hill in 2007, according to the Senate's public records office. That's more than 3-times what Sirius and XM spent on lobbying last year. The difference, of course, is...

Many passionate subscribers to Sirius and XM have criticized the company's for the "microchannel," or "pop-up channel" strategy - channels focused purely on a single artist or theme for a period of time. But there must be a reason why...

A recent article in the Associated Press has brought the debate about device interoperability to the forefront of the discussion over the Justice Department's merger approval.Interoperable radios, devices that can receive both satellite radio services, isn't a new point of...

After the Department of Justice approved the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio, they issued a lengthy analysis of why they reached this decision. But many found that "analysis" to be severely lacking because little evidence...

March auto sales fell 12 percent from a year earlier on an unadjusted basis, thanks to declining consumer confidence, higher fuel prices and recession concerns.GM reported a 13 percent sales decline for the month, Chrysler dropped 13.2 percent, and Ford...

I wanted to ignore this - because it's just so outlandish and completely incorrect - but I've been getting so many emails all day that this post simply needs to be addressed.A recent post on The Consumerist which features the...

Last week's decision by the Department of Justice may have a domino effect for other major satellite players in the coming year, says GigaOM. They point to satellite operators including Iridium, Globalstar, ICO Global Communications, TerreStar Corp. and Mobile Satellite...

This episode of "Fool Video," features The Motley Fool's Chris Hill with senior analyst Seth Jayson talking about the post-merger future of XM and Sirius. It's an interesting watch. I especially enjoyed the Braveheart reference.(Side note: There's a certain level...

UPDATE: I just want to point out that the AP story has been updated to be somewhat less misleading. Previously it read "More Choice in Satellite Radio Years Off" but now the article, written by Christopher S. Rugaber, reads: "'A...

The National Black Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) today called the decision by the DOJ a "monumental step in providing increased access to diverse programming." The NBCC also contends that throughout the process, the group has maintained precisely what the DOJ...

Edwin Meese, the seventy-fifth U.S. Attorney General under Ronald Reagan, and Senior Research Fellow in Regulatory Policy James Gattuso, weighed in on the DOJ's Sirius-XM decision in a joint statement: "Yesterday's decision by the Department of Justice not to oppose...

I am questioned constantly (nearly everyday even) from satellite radio subscribers concerned about their existing radios. Since the DOJ approved the merger, these questions have bombarded my inbox even more: Will my Inno work after the merger? Do I need...

Apparently Entercom is real serious about not mentioning Sirius or XM on the air, because it's being reported that an afternoon talker was bleeped when mentioning the news about the companies yesterday.According to Radio-Info, regionally syndicated afternoon talker Howie Carr...

There's no doubt that there has been a roller-coaster of emotions the past 400 days, but no one could be happier waking up this morning than the future CEO of a soon merged Sirius-XM: Mel Karmazin."He's going to feel better...

Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) called the Justice Department's decision to approve the merger of XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. and Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. "another disappointing example of this administration's blatant disregard for the public interest with regard to media...

The Justice Department's decision to approve the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. has provoked criticism from a key lawmaker: Senator Herb Kohl.Kohl (D-WI), who just happens to be the Senate antitrust subcommittee chairman,...

The National Association of Broadcasters is disgusted. They're hurt. They're angry! And quite possibly even... astonished!"We are astonished that the Justice Department would propose granting a monopoly to two companies that systematically broke FCC rules for more than a...

The United States Department of Justice today approved the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc., stating that the evidence does not establish that the combination of the two would "substantially reduce competition."Official statement:"After a...

Like the title says, it's all about the signage. Check out the presence of both companies at the New York International Autoshow. I like this shot particularly:Pretty hard to miss....

Orbitcast is live at the New York International Autoshow today!These are two enormous signs on the front of the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan. In fact, both Sirius and XM have more of a presence in front of the building...

Georgetown Partners has stepped up their quest for a piece of the satellite radio pie in their latest ex parte filing with the Federal Communications Commission.The filing, which gives the most amount of details to date (a recent trend),...

While it's of little surprise that either Sirius or XM would elect not to give investors guidance for the year, it looks like Directed Electronics has gone done the same thing.The company cited a number of factors, including "the...

XM is starting off the regular 2008 MLB season next week with three live broadcasts of the Boston-Oakland game, including one broadcast in Japanese. The Sox will play the A's in front of a sold-out crowd at the Tokyo Dome...

Here's a teaser video introducing a new system called StreamSmart. The project is still in the very early stages, but Orbitcast has learned some details behind the StreamSmart system and what's to come.Essentially, the goal of StreamSmart is to...

Clear Channel Communications, Inc. outlined its most detailed concession requirements, in a filing with FCC posted today, should the Commission approve the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.While earlier FCC filings have essentially reiterated...

Last week, on The Simpsons aired yet another reference to satellite radio in one of their new episodes. And while this may be inconsequential to the rest of the world, losers people with an unhealthy obsession interest for the satellite...

Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. chief Mel Karmazin said today at the Bear Stearns Cos. investor conference in Florida that he is hopeful that regulators will rule in favor of the merger with XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc."If there were a...

Former U.S. Attorney General Dick Thornburgh wrote an opinion piece in the Washington Times today, voicing his concern over the Sirius-XM merger.Most folks, by now, know that I'm on the pro-merger camp, but Thornburgh's article is persuasive one nonetheless...

Clear Channel Communications, Inc. and Georgetown Partners LLC would appear to be very different and distinct players in this debate over the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.One is a corporate radio behemoth,...

Following up to the February auto sales report, General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner said today that while sales have been weak in the first two months, they have not approached the extremes of that some are forecasting."I think it is...

General Motors, Ford and Chrysler all reported double-digit U.S. sales declines in February, reflecting signs of a possible slowing economy (or perhaps, lessening demand for gas guzzlers).Toyota and Nissan also reported sales declines, while Honda actually did the best among...

I just wanted to give an update to an article from over a month ago comparing the merger between Sirius and XM to other major mergers.The notable additions are the $80 Billion merger between Exxon and Mobil, and the...

March 1st marks the date that Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. could walk away from their proposed merger with no fear of a break-up fee. Not many believe that they actually will, but it's...

Jim Cramer has, once again, used his bully pulpit to criticize the Feds over the protracted delays for the Sirius and XM merger.This time, he focuses on the Congressmen who came out in opposition to the merger, but who...

Once again, it seems like there's an oddly quiet lull in activity. Who knows what it means (if it even means anything) about the merger. Having had tracked these two companies on a daily basis for some 3.5 years, I've...

Heritage Foundation senior analyst James Gattuso. Gattuso recently expressed his frustration with the Department of Justice and its laggard pace in coming to a decision for the Sirius-XM merger, stating: "...rumors of imminent action at DoJ have frequently made...

A quick glimpse at the Merge-O-Meter shows that it has been 367 days since the Sirius-XM merger was announced. And the Wall Street Journal Deal Journal Blogs has assembled together an interesting set of metrics that put the whole...

Here's an interesting video from CNBC featuring Rebecca Arbogast of Stifel Nicolaus & Co., Mark Cooper of the Consumer Federation of America, and Vince Farrell of Scotsman Capital Management. Well worth the watch if you have an unhealthy obsession with...

Well, it hasn't been quite one-year later, tomorrow will mark that day actually. But it was on President's Day last year when Sirius and XM announced their intent to merge. Still, this article on CNN Money sums up the...

An opinion piece in today's Philadelphia Daily News sums up the pathetic Sirius-XM merger process very nicely, albeit with an obvious pro-merger viewpoint (that is why they call it an opinion piece afterall). I won't bore you with the details,...

Here we go again. Stifel Nicolaus analyst Blair Levin today wrote that he is hearing "increasing chatter" that the DOJ is about to announce its decision on the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings...

Georgetown Partners may have possibly violated bribery law, and supporting members of Congress may have performed ethics violations as well, according to a letter obtained by Orbitcast. The letter - which was addressed to Sirius CEO Mel Karmazin and...

Stanford Group analyst Paul Gallant wrote in a recent research note that the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. is nearing a likely approval. "We believe the Department of Justice (DOJ) is near...

Yes folks, it's been an incredible 350 days since the merger was first announced. In case you haven't noticed, I recently put together this merge-o-meter on the homepage of Orbitcast, so you can sit there and watch the time...

View Larger Map Sirius is asking the FCC permission to increase the power of several repeater towers to 2,000 Watts. The locations of each of these repeaters are listed below or you can find them in the handy map above...

The RIAA isn't satisfied with those already bloated statutory damages in file-sharing lawsuits, now they want you to pay an incredible $1.5 million for a ten-track album. See, the problem is those dastardly compilation CDs. Who's to say that...

The Drudge Report is, er, reporting that "drama" is building around the Sirius-XM merger. There's no link or anything specific... just this: "APPROVED OR DENIED? DRAMA BUILDS AROUND SIRIUS-XM MERGER... DEVELOPING..." Curious as to exactly what kind of "drama" they're...

I'll admit it, I have a love/hate opinion of Jim Cramer. And this is one of the rare instances when I love what he says. Cramer yesterday took the opportunity to criticize the government for their protracted delays in coming...

Briefing.com is citing an unnamed report this morning stating: “XMSR-SIRI merger could receive approval from DoJ and FCC tonight,” according to CNN. Now we've been through this up-and-down rollercoaster too many times to count, but this is apparently enough to...

The ever-important Holiday Shopping Season didn't prove to do much for XM or Sirius last year, as NPD Group's December sales data shows a continued decline. Combined data shows that satellite radio retail sales were down 37.5% for the month,...

It seems as though the space for satellite radio -based solutions for commercial services (e.g., on-hold music, background music, etc) is continuing to grow at a decent pace. Companies like AMTC and Dynamic Media are acting as further competition...

Nissan must like what's happening here in the States, because the company will become one of the first automakers to bring satellite radio to Europe. Ondas Media, a Madrid-base company that plans to be Europe’s first and premier satellite radio...

The US Copyright Royalties Board denied a petition from SoundExchange last week for a rehearing on the royalties agreement between the Board and Sirius and XM Satellite Radio. "SoundExchange has not made a sufficient showing of clear error or manifest...

Ford Motor Company's new 2009 F-150 truck not only has added the updated Ford SYNC (complete with "911 Assist" and Vehicle Health Reports), but also has added on the new Sirius Travel Link system. Sirius Travel Link was previously...

Clarion at CES this year introduced several new in-dash units that integrate a direct connection for either Sirius Satellite Radio or XM Satellite Radio. Sirius gets the MAX385VD and the VRX485VD units, now with the simplicity of a built-in...

The Reverend Jesse Jackson joined Georgetown Partners in a meeting with FCC Chairman Kevin Martin last Wednesday, it was revealed in a recent FCC filing. Georgetown Partners has proposed - as a "partial remedy to the adverse competitive effects" of...

For this week's North American International Auto Show, Chrysler has officially unveiled the 2009 Dodge Ram truck - the first truck ever to feature Sirius Backseat TV. Chrysler is looking to make waves with this all-new redesigned truck, featuring...

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...

Despite hopes that an antitrust decision would be reached before the end of the year, the DOJ has spent nearly 10 months so far in its review process over the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite...

In a Consolidated Opposition filing with the FCC, Sirius and XM have blasted the "multitude" of filings submitted by U.S. Electronics, Inc. (USE), using some of the strongest language to date. "USE never petitioned to deny the merger in accordance...

Representative Paul Broun (R-GA) sent a letter on Friday to US Attorney General Michael Mukasey, FTC chairman Deborah Platt Majoras and FCC chairman Kevin Martin, blasting the merger between XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc and Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. Broun...

Chalk it up to "wishful thinking" or a somewhat less-than educated guess. Either way, my prediction was obviously wrong. Instead, the DOJ chose to announce that it won't appeal the Stolt-Nielson dismissal. Ho hum. Who wants to take a guess...

A few days ago I was asked on the Orbitcast Forums my prediction of when the DOJ would make a decision on the merger between Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. The short answer? My...

I really wish I had good things to say about WorldSpace, but for a company with so much potential, there are just too many hurdles to overcome. The latest news from the only international satellite radio company is that...

General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and Kia have come out in full force and publicly supported a combined Sirius-XM. Chrysler even sent a letter to FCC Chairman Kevin Martin and Assistant Attorney General Thomas Barnett expressing no opposition...

Sirius and XM have just issued a press release highlighting key support for their pending merger, citing a "diverse group of advocates" with "economic and consumer benefits." Three additional Members of Congress joined GM, the Club for Growth, Harpo...

Representative Gregory Meeks (D-NY), who in October was among 13 Congressmen who came out in support of the Sirius-XM merger, has written a letter to the FCC voicing his support for Georgetown Partners - a minority-owned firm which has recently...

After the intense frenzy at the beginning of the week, today seemed like an odd day. Not much in terms of merger chatter, and in general very little from either company. Like it's the calm before the storm. Maybe...

The Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) has made a decision on the royalty rates for Satellite Radio. (Note: The press release was just issued by XM and is worded for XM only - but I assume that these apply to Sirius...

This is a busy day for the investment analysts. This morning, Bear Stearns analyst Bob Peck issued a client note stating that a positive ruling from the CRB over music royalties is expected shortly. "Our contacts in DC suggest that...

Wall Street Journal editorial board member Jason Riley talks with Sirius CEO Mel Karmazin and XM Chairman Gary Parsons about their merger plans. Check out the video below (Email/RSS folks might need to click to watch):...

Ondas Media, a company that hopes to bring satellite radio to Europe, has suffered a bit of a setback when it comes to getting access to necessary spectrum. The Madrid-based company has been lobbying at Geneva, looking for spectrum to...

The folks over at Audiovox are stoked about having won a record 12 12 CEA Innovation Awards. The awards are being presented tonight at the CES Unveiled press event in NYC (I'm not attending, aside from the openbar, it's usually...

The Washington Post's Marc Fisher has spoken out in opposition to the Sirius-XM merger in a recent article in the "Style" section of the publication. It's actually a very well formulated argument, and while this may surprise some folks,...

Green is in right now. It's actually been hot for a while, but this year particularly "green" has taken hold in both the media and in commerce. And for good reason. I'm not talking about the moral, ethical or even...

Copyright Royalty Board judges have made their proposal for the royalty rates for "preexisting subscriptions services" which may give a glimpse into the CRB's line of thinking for similar proceedings involving Sirius and XM. The proposed royalty rates for "pre-existing...

XM and Sirius have just issued a press release highlighting additional support for their pending merger. Among those cited in the release are NASCAR and Senators John Ensign (R-NV) and Jim DeMint (R-SC), as well as some on-air talent like...

The often negative-sounding M&A Researcher has written an article today that highlights three developments that they call "matters of relative significance." M&A Researcher does its best at providing the facts in as much of a neutral position as possible. They...

The Reverend Jesse Jackson today at an FCC hearing on localism voiced his opinions on the potential competitive harms he feels could come to minorities should the Sirius-XM merger be approved. "The proposed Sirius-XM merger would eliminate the potential of...

Glass, Lewis & Co., a leading independent proxy advisory firms, has recommended that stockholders of XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. (XMSR) and Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. (SIRI) vote "FOR" the companies' merger proposals. According to Glass Lewis's analysis, "the transaction...

Here comes another round of public support from Capitol Hill, this time from Senators John Ensign (R-NV) and Jim DeMint (R-SC). The Senators have both praised Sirius and XM for the programming packages and a la carte pricing plans. DeMint...

Eleven members of Congress voiced their support for the Sirius-XM merger, in a letter addressed to FCC Chairman Kevin Martin. The letter was signed by: Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Rep. Corrine Brown (D-FL), Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Rep. Danny...

I'm busy taking apart the Arbitron ratings from earlier this week for another post I'm preparing, and found this to be interesting so figured it should be its own separate post. Before we get into it, I want to highlight...

It's almost not worth posting about retail sales anymore. It's just badnews over and over again. NPD Group's September 2007 data shows satellite radio retail sales fell 30% when compared year-over-year. The sad part is that last year was actually...

Five organizations representing rural Americans from across the country voiced their support for the merger of Sirius and XM in a joint letter sent to FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein. The Federation of Southern Cooperatives/LAF and League of Rural Voters (who...

Now that we have the Arbitron ratings for Sirius and XM, I wanted to put together some channel comparisons so we can see how the audiences for either service differs in behavior. So here's the Top 10 channels, based on...

Arbitron has released the Spring 2007 ratings for both XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. The report breaks out each service's channel by channel data of both cume (short for "cumulative audience" - essentially the unduplicated persons or households...

The NAB has been curiously quiet as of late. First they take down the XM-Sirius banner, then a pro-merger piece in Roll Call goes unchallenged... an interesting change in direction considering the vehement opposition we've seen throughout the year (or...

I just received a report that the NAB has taken down the banner opposing the Sirius-XM merger from their Washington D.C. building. Interesting......

Think you're a pro when it comes to Sirius or XM? Are you obsessed with the pending merger? (or quite possibly, sick of it entirely?) Well test your Sirius-XM merger prowess with this handy-dandy Merger Mania crossword puzzle (PDF)....

Would the proposed Sirius-XM pricing packages reduce the average revenue per subscriber? Some industry observers, myself included, have mulled over this question. But Bob Peck, analyst at Bear Stearns, details an entirely different scenario in a client note issued this...

Gary Parsons, Chairman of XM Satellite Radio, last week took the time to talk with Orbitcast to discuss the pending merger with Sirius, and the state of satellite radio today. If regulators approve the deal, Parsons is slated to become...

The NAB is darn tootin' mad about Sirius-XM's recent response about the group's request for the FCC to stop the clock. And they're laying down the tough choices for the satcasters. First, here's what Sirius-XM had to say about...

Thousands of Chrysler autoworkers walked off the job today after talks with the United Auto Workers (UAW) failed to reach an agreement. This is the first UAW strike against Chrysler since 1997. The UAW is not striking at all plants...

In a press release that just went over the wires, Sirius and XM are making sure that folks know of the recent public support for their pending merger. From members of Congress like Rep. Engel (D - NY), Rep. Boucher...

Today, Radiohead released its new album, In Rainbows, in its digital form to consumers. Buyers were given the option to pay whatever they wanted to receive a 48Mb ZIP file containing ten 160kbps DRM-free MP3 songs (and yes, the...

Sony recently unveiled their newest eBook Reader, and it got me thinking about Sirius and XM's marketing efforts. Overall, the Sony Reader is a nice evolutionary product with a sleek design. But it's not the device itself that I'm...

...or as an alternate headline, the "Service Model vs. Product Model" (far less exciting). The music industry is at an important paradigm shift right now, and there's a heated debate within the blogosphere about the economics behind the distribution...

It amazes me what counts as a "review" in an age when information is abundant and, let's face it - valuable. And if we were to give a dollar amount to CNET's review of the just released XpressRC... it...

Arbitron is reporting that satellite radio listening is growing at what looks to be a steady pace, though its listenership pales in comparison to terrestrial radio. According to Arbitron's latest numbers, both Sirius and XM account for 4.1% of the...

The Heritage Foundation's Edwin Meese III (Ronald Reagan Distinguished Fellow in Public Policy and Chairman of the Center for Legal and Judicial Studies), and James L. Gattuso (former FCC official) have written an article summarizing the NAB's fight against the...

Yesterday I had the pleasure of getting a hands-on look at the upcoming Ford SYNC handsfree in-vehicle operating system. I walked in with the full intentions of gathering enough ammo to rip apart the spawn of the Ford/Microsoft partnership, only...

XM and Sirius published an advertisement in Communications Daily, The Hill, The Politico and Roll Call today publicizing the recent survey that found a majority of voters support the merger of the two companies. The text of the advertisement reads:...

Slacker, the Internet Radio/Satellite Radio hybrid service, has finalized agreements with the major labels EMI Music, Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group - making the labels' content available to listeners on the Slacker Personal Radio service. Sony BMG...

XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio have issued a press release this morning highlighting that major retail corporations and auto manufacturers have thrown their support behind the XM-Sirius merger. It's a good thing to highlight because if consumers really...

Wisconsin's Attorney General yesterday asked the Department of Justice to block the XM-Sirius merger. In his letter to the DOJ, Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen said the combination of Sirius Satellite Radio, Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings, Inc. would...

While the terrestrial rags are booming headlines like "Consumer group blasts XM-Sirius merger" and "Consumer Group Opposes XM-Sirius Merger," a quick Google search shows that the American Consumer Institute isn't actually a consumer group. Nope, thanks to Hear 2.0,...

In case you missed it, XM Chairman Gary Parsons and iCEO/President Nate Davis were interviewed in the New York Times this weekend. It's part of, what I feel, is an important initiative to help increase the public profile of...

In response to the recent Sirius, XM survey on a la carte programming, the NAB has issued a statement calling the survey "loaded" and provided its own set of survey questions. NAB Executive VP of Media Relations Dennis Wharton, said...

XM and Sirius Satellite Radio commissioned a survey among eight hundred registered voters from August 7-9, and found that a majority support the a la carte programming packages offered as a result of the merger. According to the voter survey:...

Congressman Rick Boucher (D-VA) sent a letter to FCC Chairman Kevin Martin this past Tuesday, announcing his support of the Sirius-XM merger. In the letter, Congressman Boucher said that the satellite radio merger "should be considered in the context of...

The Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio could be nearing its final stages with in the next 30-60 days, with the probability of a favorable ruling being greater than 50%, according RBC Capital Markets analyst David Bank. In...

NPD Group's July data shows satellite radio retail sales have risen slightly since June, but still fell 31% when compared year-over-year. The Quick Glance: Sirius July 2007 Retail Sales:Down 30% YoYXM July 2007 Retail Sales:Down 32% YoY Marketshare: Sirius July...

Former FCC Chairman, Mark Fowler, has publicly declared his support for the Sirius-XM merger in an opinion piece published in the New York Sun. Mark S. Fowler served as Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission under President Reagan from 1981...

That's at least what music guru Rick Rubin says at least. Rubin has been contracted by Sony to essentially save the music industry. Save it from who? From itself of course. Gone, seemingly overnight, are the days that the music...

XM and Sirius together spent a total of $810,000 in the first half of 2007 to lobby the federal government, yet the NAB spent a total of $4.3 million during the same period, according to a disclosure form. XM Satellite...

J. Gregory Sidak and Hal J. Singer have written an anti-satellite radio merger Op-Ed piece for the Washington Times, one that is riddled with rhetoric and hypocrisy. Entitled "Misunderstanding the XM/Sirius merger," the piece urges conservatives to "reject the idea...

Today, the Federation of Southern Cooperatives/Land Assistance Fund (FSC/LAF) announced its support of the Sirius-XM satellite radio merger. The group filed a letter with the FCC, urging swift approval for the merger. “Rural communities are consistently undeserved by the...

With the resignation of Hugh Panero, XM Satellite Radio has upped Nate Davis from President and COO status, to President and (interim) CEO. And along with that move, Mr. Davis get a bump in his paycheck as well. Since he...

As we learned from an SEC filing earlier this month, Sirius and XM have proposed a royalty rate of $1.20 per broadcast per month as part of their negotiations with SoundExchange for music performance royalties. Rough estimates put this to...

Last week's decision by a federal judge to grant the Whole Foods-Wild Oats merger, is a decision that could have "broader ramifications" for other mergers like Sirius-XM's, according to a report from Stifel Nicolaus. Calling the ruling "a modest positive...

A federal judge yesterday gave the thumbs for Whole Foods to buy rival Wild Oats - rejecting the FTC's argument that the deal would stifle competition and lead to higher prices. Whole Foods operates 177 stores in the U.S., while...

CNN.com is conducting a survey soliciting your thoughts on satellite radio and the merger. They specifically want to know whether you're satisfied with the choices in regular terrestrial radio, and - if you listen to satellite radio - what...

Mel Karmazin, the present CEO of Sirius Satellite Radio - and slated to become the CEO of a merged Sirius-XM, if approved by regulators - agreed to an interview with Orbitcast to discuss the pending satellite radio merger. Knowing that...

There's a YouTube video up called "Farmer Mel" that attacks the Sirius-XM merger, and in a pretty personal matter I might add. Watch the video below (RSS/Email subscribers may need to click to see the video, trust me, it's worth...

The million-member strong Parent Television Council has fired a shot across the bow at the NAB over the "analysis" that a satellite radio a la carte packages would not better serve the consumer. The PTC called the NAB's claims...

Sirius and XM are still in the midsts of a proceeding in front of the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) over music performance royalties to be paid to SoundExchange. A recent SEC filing by Sirius provides more clarity over what has...

J.D. Power and Associates released a report on satellite radio market penetration, as well as numbers on the problems that consumers face with various satellite radio installs. According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study,...

Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO) wrote a letter to FCC Chairman Kevin Martin and Assistant Attorney General Thomas Barnett opposing the proposed merger between Sirius and XM. In the letter, McCaskill states that she does "not believe the merger is in...

A recent Bridge Ratings study found that satellite radio listeners leads other radio formats in attracting Influentials, nearly 30% more than all of traditional radio. "Influentials" are segments of the audience who are enthusiasts, who influence others to act...

It's sad that the New York Post is actually giving any attention to the NAB's "analysis" - and subsequent name-calling - of Sirius-XM's proposed A La Carte pricing. Then again, Peter Lauria does leave subtle drops about the NAB's...

The NAB has released an analysis showing that the A La Carte proposal - the one that the FCC Chairman has just expressed being pleased with - is in fact... a "sham." The NAB (reaching further back into the coffers...

FCC Chairman Kevin Martin said to reporters he was "pleased" with the a la carte proposal submitted by Sirius and XM, calling it an "important proposal." Though he admitted that he hadn't read the details of the plan put forth...

Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND), chairman of the Democratic Policy Committee and a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and Appropriations Committee, is the latest on Capitol Hill to publicly oppose the XM-Sirius merger. Dorgan sent a letter to DOJ...

Even while the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) attempts to scuttle the Sirius-XM merger, they still can't resist admitting that they compete directly with satellite radio and other forms of audio media. We're not talking about NAB CEO and...

The Parents Television Council (PTC) has once again publicly praised XM and Sirius satellite radio for the proposed A La Carte pricing as well as their "family-friendly" packages offered as a benefit of the two companies merging."This announcement by XM...

Dave Van Dyke, president of Bridge Ratings, yesterday wrote a fascinating entry in a recent blog post about the Sirius-XM merger and his personal take on its chances.In it, he discusses how Bridge's research shows that sentiment for the merger...

When Sirius and XM submitted their plans for A La Carte pricing tiers earlier this week, they undoubtedly raised their chances of having the merger approved by the FCC. Chairman Kevin Martin has always had A La Carte on the...

XM Satellite Radio may potentially be getting access to more spectrum from cell-tower operator Crown Castle.You might recall XM's failed attempt at acquiring WCS Wireless last year. XM had planned to buy WCS Wireless and its adjacent 2.3GHz band, under...

Let me preface this by first saying that I pretty much can't stand Jim Cramer. At one point in time, I actually enjoyed his banter and his advice seemed to make sense, but the circus that is Mad Money just...

Sirius and XM have announced the details on the A La Carte pricing structure, which was a much needed step towards getting the merger approved by the FCC. But out of the 8 pricing plans that were announced, the majority...

BREAKING: XM and Sirius have jointly announced the details on their A La Carte packages offered as a merged company. For the first time ever, consumers will be able to pay based on their individual preferences.We're not talking "faux"...

Former FTC Chairman James Miller filed a statement with the FCC this week addressing the notion that satellite radio is a luxury item. Calling the predicate "false," Miller said that a large portion of satellite radio subscribers have "relatively modest"...

Now that Phase One of the FCC comment period is over, analysts have been weighing in on the prospects of an XM Satellite Radio (XMSR) and Sirius Satellite Radio (SIRI) merger going through.Bank of America analyst Jonathan Jacoby, who has...

Space Systems/Loral this year has turned 50. Founded back in 1957, SS/Loral was a pioneer in communications satellites and today remains as a leader in the industry of high-powered commercial spacecraft.The company was founded as the Western Development Laboratories division...

The NAB has given Douglas Wiley the newly created position of executive vice president of Administration and Agencies. Wiley, who was previously the NAB's executive vice president of Government Relations, will serve as the NAB's chief advocate before the Cabinet...

This afternoon, Sirius and XM announced that the public comments filed with the FCC demonstrate "persuasively" that the proposed merger is in the public interest.It's a bit of a PR move, but an unsurprising one since we're nearing the...

Mel Karmazin will discuss the proposed merger of Sirius and XM at a National Press Club luncheon on Monday, July 23rd.The National Press Club luncheon will begin at 12:30pm and Karmazin's remarks will begin just after 1:00pm, followed by a...

And yet another organization has come out in support of the Sirius-XM merger, this time around it comes from the conservative non-profit group American Values.Of particular interest to American Values is the proposed "block and rebate" offering that the combined...

One of the main concerns of Sirius or XM subscribers about the proposed merger is the loss of music channels. Nobody wants to lose their favorite music channels. It was a concern that I voiced in this post, and many...

While former FCC Commissioner Harold Furchgott-Roth (who was retained by XM/Sirius) issued a report saying that a combined XM-Sirius would not be a monopoly; Philip M. Napoli (who was retained by the NAB) subsequently has countered the Furchgott-Roth report. Napoli,...

Whether or not Sirius and XM are successful in merging, automakers are still betting on satellite radio as installations will rapidly increase over the next few years. It's a point wonderfully illustrated in a recent AutoWeek article.By 2011, analysts say...

Jimmy Schaeffler, Senior Analyst and Chairman for the Carmel Group, is quoted in The Denver Post as saying that a satellite merger makes "a ton of sense."Now mind you, he's not talking about Satellite Radio... he's talking about Satellite...

An extremely influential group has today announced its support for the Sirius/XM merger: the NAACP.The the nation's largest and most widely-recognized grassroots civil rights organization, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) today has officially endorsed the...

Harold W. Furchtgott-Roth, a prominent economist and the former Commissioner of the FCC, released a study today exploring the economic considerations that government agencies should take into account when reviewing the proposed XM-Sirius merger.The paper, "An Economic Review of the...

In a recent email sent to its members, the NAB has conceded that supporters of the XM/Sirius merger "are winning the war of words at the FCC."Citing Siriusbuzz's FCC Comment Scorecard, the NAB asked their members to not let their...

And the hits just keep on coming. FamilyNet now has joined the growing list of organizations voicing their support for the Sirius-XM merger. The Fort Worth, Texas based FamilyNet operates Sirius' Christian Talk channel (ch 161), and FamilyNet TV can...

The League of Rural Voters has released an analysis comparing the 2002 EchoStar/DirecTV merger attempt, and the proposed Sirius/XM merger. The report argues that in the EchoStar/DirecTV case, the FCC determined that there were at most only two DBS providers....

The list of organizations filing comments with the FCC in support of the Sirius-XM merger continues to grow. This time around we have the Americans for Tax Reform, and the 60 Plus Association, who today filed a joint comment with...

There's a new study out about the Sirius-XM merger by Thomas Hazlett. Hazlett is the former Chief Economist of the FCC, Professor of Law & Economics at George Mason University, and a principal in Arlington Economics.The paper, "The Economics of...

Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) has come out in support of the Sirius-XM merger, it was revealed in a recent letter to the FCC. The organization, which advocates for over 500,000 members, noted that the merger will allow for more...

The Hispanic Federation (HF), one of the nation's largest Latino advocacy organizations, today joined a number of prominent groups in supporting the merger of Sirius and XM."We encourage actions that will provide our community with the benefits of competition, lower...

Both Sirius Satellite Radio (SIRI) and XM Satellite Radio (XMSR) have launched individual websites that discuss the proposed Sirius-XM merger, as well as give users the ability to take action through various means.SIRIUSmerger.com and XMmerger.com both allow users to easily...

I've setup a "dogear" link throughout Orbitcast to give people an easy way to get to the FCC's electronic comment filing system. You'll see it in the upper-right corner (a screenshot is on the right for RSS/Email readers). Just click,...

In May, Interoperable Technologies filed a patent application detailing a the separation of a radio controller from the receiver, all the while using periodic authentication.What the heck that does mean? Essentially its the componentization of the control head from the...

The Federal Communications Commission has announced the public comment period for the Sirius-XM merger application has started. Comments/petitions are due July 9th, 2007 and responses/oppositions are due July 24th.The clock has started. Sirius and XM have issued the following joint statement...

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) president and CEO, David Rehr, sent a 3-page letter to Sirius Satellite Radio CEO Mel Karmazin over comments made at a conference last week.Karmazin had called the NAB "disgraceful" because of its opposition to...

In an ongoing trend of minority groups coming out in favor the Sirius-XM merger, the New York State Federation of Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (or NYSFHCC) today added its voiced in support of the merger."The Hispanic marketplace is expanding at...

The American Antitrust Institute (AAI), a Washington-based advocacy group, shocked the nation today by filing comments with the FCC opposing the Sirius-XM merger.In the letter (PDF), the organization wrote:"...AAI believes that the Commission should address the merits of repealing the...

In part two of the continuing plug-and-play series (part one covered color displays), let's explore what I consider to be the "new" plug-and-play on the market. And it may just surprise you, because... well, it doesn't involve a satellite radio...

Sirius and XM have tapped the high-profile firm Quinn Gillespie & Associates LLC to lobby the federal government on their proposed merger, according to a disclosure form filed today.The firm was founded by Jack Quinn, who served as counsel to...

In a note to clients this morning, Bear Stearns analyst Bob Peck refers to a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Silver Blaze, as one of the positives regarding the Sirius-XM merger.One of the major clues in solving the...

David Rehr, CEO and El Presidente of the NAB, bestowed his wise words of wisdom regarding the Sirius-XM merger at the first in a series of Wachovia conferences last week.Rehr said that he believes the deal would create a "merger...

It's been 70 days since Sirius-XM filed with federal regulators, and yet the merger hasn't even passed the preliminary review process. The FCC has yet to start its 180-day merger-review clock, and that smells like trouble for many."This constitutes the...

The League of Rural Voters today announced their support for the Sirius-XM merger, joining with several other organizations who have recently publicly supported the merger.It's an interesting addition to the roster of supporters, because while the prior organizations addressed the...

The largest and oldest Latino organization in the U.S., the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), has publicly affirmed their support for the merger of Sirius and XM."This is obviously important to LULAC, and this is likely to provide...

Sometime ago I was sent these spec TV spots (videos below) that took a different approach to promoting Sirius. And I really think the concept has potential.In most other commercial spots - by both Sirius and XM - it's essentially...

It seems that everytime a lawmaker comes out in opposition of the Sirius-XM merger, they have some level of financial motivation. First there was Arizona's Mike Hubbard, who ended up owning his own radio station, and now it turns out...

Senator Herb Kohl (D-Wis.) recently sent a letter to the Justice Department and the FCC calling on regulators to oppose the Sirius-XM deal.Kohl's opposition of the merger is not necessarily new, but being the chairman of the Senate's Subcommittee on...

The Latino Coalition (TLC) has publically come out in support of the Sirius-XM merger and has urged the FCC to approve the satellite radio marriage."For far too long, the Latino market has been ignored by traditional radio companies," said TLC...

According to the Detroit Free Press, XM Satellite Radio will give two-days worth of subscription credit for the recent outage in service."Subscribers who request a credit will receive one" by calling the listener care number at 800-967-2346, said XM spokesman...

The Motley Fool's article last week on "Why Satellite Radio Will Fail" now has a counterpart, appropriately entitled "Why Satellite Radio Will Succeed." And if you're a regular reader here, you can take an easy guess as to which one...

Ah, the tried and true plug-and-play receiver. It's been the top seller for the satellite radio industry since its inception, and for good reason. Bringing Sirius and XM to your car with the value-added choice of portability, an advanced set...

XM and Sirius were slapped with a second patent infringement lawsuit in two months, this time over technology that schedules transmissions from computer databases. The suit filed by Finisar Corporation against XM, Sirius and Satellite CD Radio, claims the companies...

XM Satellite Radio CEO Hugh Panero told analysts today that XM remains positive in their outlook for a merger with Sirius. “We continue to believe we will ultimately receive the necessary approval to continue with the merger,” Panero said.Indeed, in...

That's the question being posed by SeekingAlpha contributor M&A Researcher, as the FCC still has not started its review "clock" just yet.They point out that there has been an unusually long delay from application filing to clock start, but given...

Slacker's head of marketing Jonathan Sasse sat down with Mark Ramsey of Hear 2.0 in an incredible audio interview, and I highly recommend everyone take a listen to it.Not only does Ramsey address the thought that Slacker, with their own...

The Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI), a non-profit public policy group, is urging federal regulators to approve the Sirius-XM merger, and to proceed with the modernizing of antitrust rules for all industries.CEI feels that the satellite radio industry is not its...

Mel Karmazin's testimony before the Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee today drove the concept that a combined Sirius-XM would offer "more choice, lower prices." It's a mantra that has been repeated time and time again.But Karmazin pointed out that...

As the country continues to reel in the aftermath of the devastating shooting yesterday at Virginia Tech - that left 32 people dead, along with the gunman, and at least 30 others injured - XM will provide a special local...

Here's a video that was sent to me that I think everyone will find entertaining. It pretty much speaks for itself:...

Last week the NAB enlisted two more hired guns to battle for their cause: Philip M. Napoli and James Miller. Both offered their "assessment" of the Sirius-XM merger, and submitted their documents to Members of Congress and their staff.Philip M....

Yesterday both XM and Sirius reported in a SEC filing that the Department of Justice has issued a “Second Request”, under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act.Reuters points out that antitrust authorities issue such a request if an initial review turns up potential...

The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation will be holding a hearing on the Sirius-XM merger.With the intriguing title of "XM Sirius" the hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 17, 2007 at 10am in room SR - 253....

The Washington Post has picked up on the recent TMF report that criticized the Carmel Group limited view of the audio entertainment market."The FCC and DOJ aren't in the business of looking into some crystal ball and predicting some technology...

Randolph J. May published a post that I've just read in disbelief. It's really a compelling argument for the Sirius-XM merger, in defining the market, and in explaining how this merger would actually lead to innovation.Now, before those who are...

Satellite services consulting firm Telecom, Media and Finance Associates, Inc. (TMF Associates) has come out against the NAB-backed Carmel Group whitepaper.TMF analyzed the positions taken by Carmel Group and concluded that this white paper "ludicrously overstates the case for opposing...

Looks like all the ruckus the NAB is making over the Sirius-XM merger is raising awareness of exactly who the competition really is. And its rapid-fire lobbying could end up backfiring according to one analyst.The "sneaky" lobbying efforts by the...

I figured that since the NAB can create anti-merger ads, I can just as well create my own pseudo-ad showing the NAB's inconsistencies. So here goes: ...

There's an online petition to members of Congress, the FCC, and other governmental units, in favor of the Sirius-XM merger.  Right now there's 228 signatures, but just as you can submit a comment to the FCC, this is another way...

It's interesting to see the blogosphere's reaction to stories like this, so here's a snapshot from Technorati for the last 30 days:The numbers speak volumes, but the powerful response from bloggers is even more compelling. Here's a few quotable quotes...

Looks like the media is picking up on the inconsistencies in The Carmel Group's analysis. The New York Post, who incidentally had the exclusive on the Carmel Group anti-merger study, features a quick follow up article highlighting my "Busted" post....

Many of us have strong opinions on the XM-Sirius Merger, whether it's for or against it. Regardless on what side of the fence you're on, I think everyone wants to have the opportunity to let your opinion be heard.If you're...

Have you ever wondered how the hell they crammed all that gear into the package when you bought a new satellite radio? I've opened a fair share of units myself and (sadly) have had to put them back together to...

The Carmel Group whitepaper (PDF) has been released outlining their opposition of the XM-Sirius merger. Again, note that the NAB has commissioned this report (so some of the wording may read familiar).Below is the famous Ping-Pong Chart that they're hoping...

The Carmel Group, a self-proclaimed influential research firm, has released a study exclusively to the New York Post countering the XM-Sirius merger.A key highlight of the study is the so-called "ping-pong chart" illustrating historically XM's and Sirius' competitive reactions to...

Lon Levin, the co-founder of XM Satellite Radio and a 20-year industry veteran, has joined Slacker as a Senior Advisor. Levin not only co-founded XM Satellite Radio, but he also played an integral role in the formation of other media,...

Let's free our minds for a second and look at 10 big ideas that will increase awareness (and in turn, subscribers) for satellite radio. These might go against the grain, but hey that's the whole fun of it. So in...

The FCC has recently issued a competitive report and analysis on satellite communications services, and the NAB is using it as an opportunity to spin the report's findings in their favor.The NAB issued a statement stating that the recent FCC...

Corporate Crime Reporter has revealed that C3SR - the consumer group that was created to oppose the merger between XM and Sirius - is in fact supported by the NAB.Separately... and perhaps more importantly... in the recent Criterion Economics Study...

Bridge Ratings has continued their study about the impact of the XM-Sirius merger on consumer interest. It's probably going to be an ongoing study because, well, it's great media bait (hell, I'm talking about it).  As with an earlier study released...

In a post XM-Sirius merger scenario, would the red headed stepchild of satellite radio - WorldSpace - step in and start covering the U.S. market? Maybe so, if the FCC required the newly merged company to relinquish one of its...

WorldSpace Satellite Radio (remember them?) has announced their fourth quarter and full-year 2006 results, where subscribers have grown to a whopping 199,000.In Q4, WorldSpace added 22,274 net subscribers ending the quarter with 199,105 subscribers worldwide, 73% higher YoY. In India,...

FCC Chairman Kevin Martin and the Parents Television Council (PTC) both had words of praise over allowing satellite radio subscribers the ability to block adult-oriented channels - and to subsequently give a rebate for those blocked channels.It's a plan that...

In the FCC application for the merger of both satellite radio companies, XM-Sirius state that no existing Commission rules bar the one entity from buying the other.This differs greatly from what we've all thought to be the case, particularly the...

Yesterday, both Sirius and XM filed the required FCC application to transfer their licenses held by both companies for the merger .In it Sirius-XM state their case for proposing the merger - ultimately arguing that the proposed merger of the...

At today's Senate Judiciary hearing, Mel Karmazin stated that not only would they not raise rates from the $12.95, but they will in fact offer a lower price to receive satellite radio.Rates of $8.95 or $9.95 were mentioned, but no...

Sirius and XM placed this ad in RollCall, The Hill, Politico and Comm Daily. Why let the NAB have all the fun? This is the second ad (that I know of) from Sirius-XM, fighting for the merger. View it after...

Since MasterCard wasn't too happy over the NAB stealing their brand identity (ironic?), the NAB has put together a new anti-satellite radio ad campaign. Just in time for today's hearing, how convenient.This time around, they're using quotes from Mel Karmazin...

The Senate's Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights is holding a hearing on the XM-Sirius merger, today at 2:15pm ET.Witnesses scheduled to attend include, of course, Mel Karmazin (from the Sirius camp), Mary Quass (from NRG Media, also...

Yesterday it was discovered that Keystone Autonics was suing both XM and Sirius, but a quick search didn't help in locate the actual patent number. But thanks to a comment on Engadget, patent # 7,165,123 looks to be a winner.The...

TheStreet is reporting that Keystone Autonics is seeking an injunction, damages and legal fees against both XM and Sirius satellite radio over their patented technology.The patent in question was awarded to George Hindman of Keystone Autonics in January. It applies...

A recent article in the Washington Post brings to light an open question about a merged satellite radio service: given the limited bandwidth available from either XM and Sirius, how will they be able to handle transmitting each other's content?Subscribers...

Chris Reale founder of the Consumer Coalition For Competition In Satellite Radio (C3SR) was interviewed for this week's FMQB eQB cover story, where he describes his views in opposing the merger between the two satellite radio broadcasters.He has two main...

The NAB's new anti-Sirius/XM merger ad - which parodies the MasterCard "priceless" campaign - has reportedly brought the complaint of copyright infringement from MasterCard.The ad features a big "credit card" with XM-Sirius over MasterCard's familiar red and orange circles. Underneath...

The Kansas City Star has an article on why the Sirius-XM merger is bad idea. And while columnist Steven Pearlstein paints a bit of a doomsday scenario, he does make a good argument as to the ramifications involved if the...

TWICE writer Bob Gerson feels there's a better than 50/50 chance that the FCC will approve the XM-Sirius merger. At least that's the indication he got from the mouth of the horse, in the form of FCC chairman Kevin Martin.During...

Hear 2.0 got ahold of an insider who spilled the beans on the initiatives behind a merged XM-Sirius. I have a few issues with this "mole" and the information being "leaked" - primarily that each bit of info is surrounded...

Sirius Satellite Radio's co-founder, Robert Briskman, has been awarded the 2007 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Aerospace Communications Award. The Aerospace Communications Award will be presented at the 25th AIAA International Communications Satellite Systems Conference in Seoul, South Korea...

NAB president David Rehr has so vehemently opposed the XM-Sirius merger to such a level that it has helped solidify the point to some lawmakers that satellite radio and terrestrial radio directly compete.Well, now it seems that Rehr is...

The music. The music scares me.I'm actually not so concerned about the prices. Hell, I never really expect the current rates to stay where they are anyway - like death and taxes - subscription services are destined to squeeze the...

Remember XM's whole thing with the RIAA over the Pioneer Inno? Sure you do. Well, what would happen if XM and Sirius merge? Mel gives us a possible glimpse:"We're implementing my viewpoint at Sirius. We have made an accommodation with...

Mel Karmazin said before a House telecommunications subcommittee hearing yesterday that both XM's and Sirius' satellite infrastructure would continue to operate for at least 10 to 12 years.It's nothing that hasn't been said before, but Mel was clarifying for subcommittee...

Since the House has had a bite, now it's the Senate's turn. A hearing on the XM-Sirius Merger is scheduled to kick off on March 20th at 2:15pm ET for the Senate's Antitrust Subcommittee.The hearing, artfully entitled "The XM-Sirius Merger:...

Well that was fast. Barely a moment has past since the NAB unveiled their anti-satellite radio merger ad, and XM-Sirius have launched their own pro-merger campaign of their own. Check it out after the jump... ...

The NAB has taken out an ad in the Congress Daily and other political publications that highlights the XM-Sirius Merger. Anyone want to guess which (ironic) position they take?View the ad after the jump......

Mel Karmazin is scheduled to appear in front of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet (a subcommittee of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce), today at 2:30pm ET.The hearing is on "The Digital Future of the United States:...

Earlier this week it was learned that even though John Ashcroft sent a letter blasting the XM/Sirius merger, his lobbying firm had originally contacted XM offering his services to their side instead. The only gray area was that this claim...

The New York Times is reporting that FCC Chairman Kevin Martin has - in private conversations - questioned Mel Karmazin's statements about price increases, at last week's Congressional hearings.In question is Karmazin's promise to not raise prices beyond what subscribers...

When XM and Sirius first announced their proposed merger, they stated that the merged synergies ranged from $3 billion - $7 billion (that's quite a spread isn't it?). But that wasn't based on their own analysis, that was based on...

John Ashcroft, who was the head of the Justice Department for four years, apparently approached XM in the days after the Sirius/XM merger announcement - offering his firm's consulting services, according to a spokesman for XM.XM declined Ashcroft's offer to...

Former Attorney General John Ashcroft has attacked the Sirius/XM merger, saying the combination would leave only one provider in the market.Ashcroft was hired by the NAB to "examine" the merger.In a letter sent earlier this week to his replacement as...

FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell said on Thursday that the proposed Sirius/XM merger depends a lot on "how the market is defined." So far none of the FCC commissioners have spoken out on whether they would vote to waive the condition...

As severe weather moves across the Southeast, people across the region can tune into XM Satellite Radio for storm reports and public safety information. The XM Emergency Alert (ch 247) channel is tracking the storms, reporting on damages, and telling listeners...

Mel Karmazin, gave some more light on the possible "A La Carte" packages and pricing at today's House Judiciary Committee Antirust Task Force hearing on the proposed satellite radio merger.First, Karmazin clarified that at this time "per-channel" A La Carte...

Gigi B. Sohn, co-founder and President of Public Knowledge, testified in front of the U.S. House Judiciary Committee antitrust task force hearing on the proposed XM/Sirius merger. Interestingly enough, Gigi was actually in favor of the merger....but on a few...

David Rehr, president of the NAB, testified in front of the House Judiciary Committee antitrust task force. He had five main points as to why this merger should not go through.The national satellite radio industry is a duopoly that is...

Mel Karmazin will testify today in front of a new House Judiciary Committee antitrust task force today at 3pm ET. The hearing will discuss the proposed XM-Sirius merger.Also in attendance will be the NAB's President David Rehr, Gigi B. Sohn...

In Arbitron's Fall 2006 ratings survey, respondents were asked to indicate whether they're listening to satellite radio, Internet radio or AM/FM, for the first time. Arbitron found that the sum of all satellite radio channels listed totaled up to 3.4%...

BusinessWeek has published an article about what the XM, Sirius merger "won't fix" in terms of the basic business model. Essentially they're saying that the model is flawed.It's an unfortunate conclusion that many people seem to be taking as a...

Regardless of whether you are for, or against, the XM/Sirius Merger (and it's obvious that a majority of you are for it), I'd like to get a sense as to how many of you feel whether or not the deal...

Should the Sirius and XM merger not pass regulatory approval, both companies can still make it on their own, analysts told MarketWatch today.Since both companies have been trading on the speculation of the merger alone, the value of the actual...

There's been a flood of emotions over this merger, and along with them comes a few misconceptions about what's to happen next. So I think that it's best to lay out exactly how this impacts you, the subscriber.First thing's first,...

After today's conference call about the merger of the two companies, I felt it's necessary to break down the current strategy that I'm seeing both companies taking. This merger needs to be positioned in a positive light, and most importantly...

 Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio are expected to announce their planned merger today according to the New York Post.While we've been down this path before - albeit the source of the rumor is only slightly more reputable (theflyonthewall...

Hugh Panero has been XM Satellite Radio's CEO, as well as a member of the Board of Directors, for nearly 9 years now. But any good leader should know when it's time to step aside and let others take over.In...

Al Gore today unveiled a 24-hour concert series "Live Earth" which will debut on all 7 continents, in an effort to bring awareness to none other than: the dangers of global warming.The concert, which is set for 07/07, is expected...

Yesterday, legislation H.R. 983 - backed by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) - was introduced in Congress by Representative Gene Green (D-TX). The legislation was co-sponsored by Representative Charles W. "Chip" Pickering (R-MS).The purpose of the legislation (given the...

A merger of Sirius and XM may not be necessary right now says Mark Wienkes, analyst at Goldman Sachs."We believe that the consensus perception that this merger must be attempted sooner rather than later is misguided," he said in the...

Satellite Radio OEM installations are growing this year (afterall, it is the year of the OEM), and TWICE gives us some numbers to help support this, courtesy of Edmunds.For the 2007 model year, satellite radio service is available in 218...

Bank of America ran a Radio Sales Survey recently at the RAB 2007 Conference, and one thing jumped out at me: Satellite radio is "fading as a threat" in the eyes of radio professionals.First, I just want to point out...

Here's a thought: take the high paced social-centric approach of Digg, and combine it with the interactivity of requesting songs on the radio. What would you have? Digg for radio.I've been thinking a lot about the interactivity of satellite radio....

Woohoo! Here's video of the satellite radio mention on the Simpsons. Thanks to the boys over at Sirius Uplink for the video!...

You know a medium has reached key milestone in our mainstream culture, when it gets mentioned on the Simpsons. So was the case when during last night's Simpsons episode ("Revenge is a Dish Best Served Three Times") when Homer showed...

The European Space Agency (ESA) today will demonstrate a prototype of what they call "the multimedia car radio of the future" at the Noordwijk Space Expo in the Netherlands. Unlike XM and Sirius' satellite radio services, this system won't require...

 If a merger between XM and Sirius were to happen it would probably happen within the next 4-8 weeks, says Bear Stearns analyst Robert Peck. The reasoning behind that is that he believes that the deal would need to be...

The merger of XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio could create the net present value of $6.7 Billion in savings and synergies, according to Bear Stearns analyst Robert Peck.That figure is taking into account "several simplifying and sometimes conservative...

XM Satellite Radio and Honda have launched a satellite radio trial program for Honda Certified Used Cars with factory-installed XM Satellite Radio.All certified pre-owned Honda models (equipped with XM Satellite Radio of course) will be available with three months of...

Eric Savitz at Barron's hits the nail on the head:"I think the Street might be making too much of the weak satellite radio sales at retail. The satellite services will live or die on their ability to become standard equipment...

There's an interesting article in today's New York Post about the possibility of XM and Sirius no longer be signing, or renewing, the high-cost programming deals as they did in the prior years.Deals like the NFL, Howard Stern and Martha...

Joe Nocera has a nicely written piece in today's New York Times, I Want My Howard Stern and Oprah, that takes on the consumer's viewpoint... and he actually is in favor of a Sirius + XM merger.It's an intriguing take...

Merger hopefuls who's dreams were dashed yesterday can get excited again. The FCC Chairman Kevin Martin said today that the rules barring a merger between XM and Sirius could be altered, if requested. Martin, told Reuters on the sidelines of...

Gee, who saw this coming? The FCC Chairman today indicated that Sirius and XM Satellite Radio wouldn't win approval of a merger under current U.S. Federal Communications Commission rules.FCC Chairman Kevin Martin told reporters during a news conference that "there's...

Enter the "Consumer Coalition for Competition in Satellite Radio" ("C3SR"), a group of law students at the George Washington University who have formed the organization in protest to XM and Sirius Satellite Radio merger rumors."The competitive duopoly in satellite digital...

While the rumored merger announcement from XM and Sirius at NAIAS obviously didn't happen yesterday (did we really think it would?), the topic about a potential merger continues to go on. Now again, remember that there's a huge difference between...

A new year, a new Congress, a new set of challenges. Only days after the 110th Congress was sworn in, a new anti-satellite radio bill is hitting the Senate that reintroduces the basic concepts of The Perform Act.This time it's...

Sirius Backstage has a nice set of notes outlining Mel Karmazin's keynote at the Citigroup Media & Telecom Conference in Las Vegas today.A few key takeaways are that Karmazin doesn't like the lifetime subscriptions because they're the biggest fans. Also...

The folks at XM were kind enough to not only give me a tour of the booth pre-show, but to allow me to snap off photos of it for Orbitcast readers to enjoy. The display booth was buzzing with excitement...

This morning, Pioneer hosted a press conference at CES in Las Vegas, where they demonstrated new navigation and entertainment features for your car. The goal? To make driving fun again.As part of this unveiling, they've launched a new marketing campaign...

It's a day before CES 2007 officially opens, but there's no need to wait for Monday to get the scoop on what XM is showing. Nope, in fact, here's an overview of what I've learned is in store for the...

 CES 2007 is soon upon us next week and the excitement is building (not mention that MacWorld is going on the same week, building it's own level of excitement for our favorite "competitive" device).So here's a bit of a breakdown...

As expected, XM will be displaying their pimped-out show vehicle at CES 2007, that will be packed to the gills with current and concept systems from XM's arsenal.This year the concept vehicle is called the XM "Infotainment" Vehicle, which is...

Delphi just announced that they've sold their 13 millionth satellite radio receiver, which includes both radios sold via the retail channel and OEM receivers installed in vehicles.Delphi produces receivers in more than 10 new vehicle manufacturers, as well as other...

Yesterday, Sirius reported ending the year with just over 6 million subscribers... so what does this mean about XM's subscribers?Bank of America analyst Jonathan Jacoby writes in a recent report, feels that since "Sirius ended '06 with 6.02 subscribers, below...

Mergeritis.Pronunciation: mûr'j?r'?'t?sFunction: nounThe inability to get passed the possibility of, though without actual proof of, a merger between two or more companies.Usage: See New York Times, or Washington Times (actually a UPI article).[via Sirius Uplink]...

With the year coming to a close, it's time for that obligatory "end of year" prediction and some fine words of wisdom (with hindsight being 20/20 of course). So here's one of them: 2007 will be the year that the...

If you're one of those last-minute shoppers who refuses to hit the mall, remember that it's still not too late to get those satellite radios online. And many of the popular online resellers are now offering free overnight shipping so...

The Motley Fool has an intriguing article today on why satellite radio may not be selling so well this holiday season.They raise the question on whether satellite radio is really losing to bigger ticket items like flat-screen TVs and next-gen...

he Los Angeles Times featured an amazing article yesterday about a single man's experience with his new satellite radio. The entire article revolves around a single aspect that he discovered with his new present: "The first surprise about satellite radio...

Listen to the latest episode of the CNN "The Digital Life" podcast as your's truly talks with CNN's Headline News anchor Renay San Miguel about the current state of the satellite radio industry. We cover the XM-Sirius merger rumors, the...

Ok, this is fun just for the hell of it. Are you bored at work? Maybe have a friend who's busy filing out TPS reports? Or perhaps you just need to emerse yourself into XM's wacky line-drawing world for...

Apple co-founder, Steve Wozniak (The Woz) gave the satellete radio industry a "Buy" rating in a recent interview with the Motley Fool. The conversation was basically equating the future of select technologies/products with a investing-style "Buy, Sell, Hold" rating. The...

This is an old article about the Sirius and XM merger. Though some of the regulatory hurdles of this article are still pretty valid. But if you're looking for up-to-date info on the merger, you should probably follow these links:OFFICIAL:...

For him or for her, satellite radio is the perfect gift for the Holidays. If you already own XM or Sirius, then you know how much that special someone on Santa's lil' list will appreciate your thoughtful gift. To make...

There are currently about 15 million DVR-enabled households in the United States, and it's expected that this will cross the 30-40 million threshold by 2010. That's going from 10-12% of TV households to over 30% of TV households. (Sound familiar?)...

While both Sirius and XM have gone through extensive steps to resolve over modulating FM transmitters, NPR says they have not seen an improvement.In fact, NPR believes that the issue is even worse and has asked the FCC to take...

At today's UBS Global Media & Communications Conference, Sirius' CFO David Frear stated that he estimates that satellite radio has approximately 30 million listeners to date. Sirius ended 3Q06 with 5,119,308 subscribers, while XM finished the third quarter with 7,185,873...

Directed Electronics is revising their 2006 guidance to reflect lower than anticipated satellite radio sales. Directed's sales are now projected to be in the range of $430 - $440 million compared to previously issued guidance of $440 - $460 million.Jim...

Bigwigs from both Sirius and XM will be at the UBS and Credit Suisse conferences during Media Week in NYC. Here's the agenda between the two in chronological order: Sirius Satellite Radio's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, David...

Superstar CEO Mel Karmazin said on Thursday that Sirius' holiday sales were strong, but might fall short of last year's subscriptions. "Business is very strong, very good," Karmazin told the Reuters Media Summit in New York. But he added: "We...

In a recent report released by Bank of America Analyst Jonathan Jacoby, it was stated that channel checks with retail buyers (not sellers) indicate that gross retail sales will decline by 20% in the fourth quarter.Now, that's down 20%...

In a SmartMoney interview with Mel Karmazin (via SSG), the subject touched upon the beaten-horse topic of a possible SIRIUS+XM merger. Karmazin's response isn't that of complete dismissal, but rather he leads the answer in a suggestive direction stating that...

SoundExchange issued a press release on Friday announcing the findings of a recent "study" of theirs. The purpose of the study is to find out... whether music is important to satellite radio. Yes folks, someone actually spent money on this....

A recent report by Bridge Ratings has indicated that foot traffic is on the rise for satellite radio retailers. Great news, but the even bigger bit of info is the increasing interest coming from the college crowd.So what's is causing...

The WCS Coalition, a group including Sprint Nextel, BellSouth, NextWave, AT&T, Comcast and the WCA, complained to the FCC that Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio should not be allowed to continue operating unauthorized and over-powered terrestrial repeaters in...

XM has signed on DBL Distributing as a National Preferred Distributor for XM Satellite Radio.DBL is one of the largest consumer electronics distributors with a network of over 30,000 dealers under it's wing. This deal will provide them all with...

During today's earnings call, Bear Stearns Analyst Robert Peck asked Mel Karmazin about what he felt was the "pulse" about the potential merger between XM and Sirius, and whether it's a feasible situation.Mel Karmazin poignently responded that while there would...

It's early November, and the only new XM receiver we've seen is the SkyFi3. And after yesterday's earnings call, we now know that nothing else is planned until CES. Odd. Last year XM held the XMas In August event which...

XM Satellite Radio is launching a new ad campaign this month that links the XM brand to music featured in prime-time network shows. The ads (considered "first-of-a-kind" and "groundbreaking" according to MediaWeek) will air immediately after select shows as a...

 XM Satellite Radio has just unveiled a new website. Featuring a brand new look-and-feel, slicker styling and updated graphic treatments. The new xmradio.com (finally) reflects a "new media" company.The homepage is actually far simplified from it's previous version (and has...

SoundExchange, the organization that collects and distributes music royalities (often referred to as the ominous "RIAA" but technically this is incorrect, SoundExchange represents the recording industry) has filed their rate increase propsals to the Copyright Royalty Board.SoundExchange is asking Sirius...

In what seems like a backing of a NAB initiative, National Public Radio (NPR) has written a request to the FCC to recall FM modulators used to play iPods, Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio, through car stereos, because...

Remember Interoperable Technologies? They're the company that is actually working with both SIRIUS and XM (gasp!) to create a dual-service receiver that supposedly is nearing production. Well, Interoperable Technologies has gone and filed for a patent to operate a dual-service...

The NAB President/CEO David Rehr sent two letters to the FCC on Monday calling for probes into XM and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.In his first letter (PDF), Rehr asked the FCC to "immediately commence a full investigation into both the actual...

Perhaps this explains yesterday's rumor - today Apple filed for a patent application (PDF) for a method of saving media from various sources for later purchase. It's an ingenious method of grabbing snippets of audio, identifying the song and allowing...

FMQB's e-QB cover story this week features an in-depth interview with XM Satellite Radio's EVP of Programming, Eric Logan (aka, the famous E-Lo). It has some very intriguing insight on several of XM's programming, including the launch of Oprah &...

Remember the Polk I-Sonic? It's that all-in-one home audio entertainment system that throws AM/FM/CD/DVD/HD Radio and XM Satellite Radio into a blender and mixes it all together. Well Orbitcast's review unit just arrived and here's some initial hands-on impressions on...

Advertisers such as Pfizer, Geico and Procter & Gamble have included Satellite and Internet radio in their radio upfronts. (An 'upfront' is simply an advertising meeting  where ad buyers get to purchase airtime "up front") Walgreens and Home Depot have...

XM Satellite Radio has launched a new marketing and branding campaign under the direction of their new creative agency Lowe New York. The new campaign will be integrated across multiple platforms including television, print, interactive, direct marketing, retail and automotive...

Sumner Redstone, Chairman of the Board and controlling shareholder of Viacom/CBS Corp, told PBS' Charlie Rose that satellite radio has no future, in a recent interview. "And that's not just because Karmazin runs it," he continued, "They keep losing money,...

By now you're probably over the initial shock-and-awe reactions from today's Q306 announcements by XM and Sirius. The basic question on everyone's minds is whether or not the satellite radio industry has peaked? Looking forward, in order to reach guidance...

According to Satellite Radio TechWorld, XM Satellite Radio has reduced the power levels of 210 repeater towers that were emitting above authorized levels, bringing them into compliance. Nineteen repeater towers were being operated without authority, fifteen of those have been...

Bridge Ratings has been maintaining their ongoing study on satellite radio this year, and their most recent research has shown that the retail sales is showing "a sluggish environment." Since Labor Day Weekend, retail activity has dropped by 29%, and...

The Copyright Modernization Act (HR 6052), which seeked to change the rules on the licensing and delivery of digital music, has died. XM Satellite Radio ran a grassroots campaign earlier this week, in a mass email sent to all subscribers,...

Acura is making XM Satellite Radio available as standard equipment in their entire 2007 model line. Acura will also now offer XM NavTraffic as part of the AcuraLink system which will be expanded to four of its top-selling models:...

Out of the final four agencies that XM was considering - The Richards Group, Wieden + Kennedy, DDB in New York, and Lowe - XM Satellite Radio has selected Lowe for its estimated $50 million ad account. Lowe will take...

The Anchorage Daily News has a wonderful writeup on receiving satellite radio in Alaska. Remember when I was asking for subscribers in Alaska? That was in an effort to help with this article, which Sarah Henning didn't need my help...

Banc of America Securities analyst Jonathan Jacoby said yesterday that the NPD-reported satellite radio unit sales grew an average 2% year-to-year in July. Those numbers are better than June - which was pretty much flat - but XM’s growth was...

Interesting, there seems to be a growing interest in Internet Radio in the satellite radio industry. First Sirius registers for SIR: Sirius Internet Radio, and now XM has applied for Power Shift.The trademark app simply give the description of Power...

The Wall Street Journal's Stacey Delo takes a look at the options available to people who are sick and tired of regular radio. She explores Internet Radio - highlighting AOL Radio (with 20 XM channels included) - as well as...

A new study by Bridge Ratings found that the renewal rate of XM/SIRIUS subscribers, when broken down by OEM channel and Retail channel acquisitions, differs significantly. The report found that of those subscribers who purchased a satellite radio at the...

XM Satellite Radio has inked a deal with Alltel Wireless that will give Alltel customers access to a wide range of XM Satellite Radio programming via their wireless phones. The XM Radio Mobile service will be offered to Alltel Wireless...

An Orbitcast reader noticed at Wal-Mart that XM Satellite Radio is giving FM emission-restricting ferrite clips for free to the public. XM provided a box full of the black clips with instructions on how to apply the clips to your...

Eleven XM Satellite Radio music channels will report airplay to Radio & Records and affect the R&R charts starting with the publication’s August 11th issue.The following channels will report to R&R (with the associated R&R chart in parentheses):20 on 20...

Google has announced that they have inked a deal with XM Satellite Radio to provide commercial advertising inventory to XM's non-music channels through Google's dMarc service.After months of trials, the new platform is now in full production for dMarc advertisers....

Arbitron has announced it will begin measuring satellite radio channels starting with the Fall 2006 survey. The announcement was made to the Advisory Board at their three-day meeting, held this July 26 - 28 in Colorado Springs, CO.During the meetings,...

The SIRIUS Starmate Replay was the top selling plug-and-play satellite radio receiver from June 2005 to May 2006, according to The NPD Group. Pretty interesting considering that it was just introduced in September of 2005.The Starmate Replay beat out the...

Recent commentary on CNN Money, XM faces the music, features an interesting debate about the possibility of a merger/takeover of XM Satellite Radio. Generally I dismiss most merger talks, especially since the recent misquoting of Mel Karmazin's "love" for buying...

XM Satellite Radio's upcoming Oprah & Friends channel is coming together at a rapid pace. Corny Koehl, John St. Augustine and Rita Coburn Whack all have been named to the production team for the lifestyle channel set to debut in...

With yesterday's appointment of Nate Davis to serve as the XM Satellite Radio President and Chief Operating Officer, we now have learned more about the situation from XM's latest 8-K filing (PDF).First off, as we know from the announcement yesterday...

XM Satellite Radio and the American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers (ASCAP), have entered into a new five-year music licensing agreement. The ASCAP was established in 1914 and is the world's largest performing rights organization with over 130,000 composer,...

XM Satellite Radio, today announced the appointment of Nate Davis to the newly created position of President and Chief Operating Officer.Nate Davis is a seasoned telecommunications executive, having served in senior management roles at XO Communications, Nextel and MCI. He...

In a refreshing change from the "XM vs SIRIUS" discussion you usually see in media outlets, CNN today has a piece on the benefits of the services from the eyes of two subscribers. There's no arguing or name calling, just...

The Washington Post today featured an incredibly accurate column on the RIAA's lawsuit against XM. This paragraph says it all: You'd think an industry that has managed to turn out so much mediocre music for so many years, done so...

As it's been widely reported, NPR has received numerous complaints from listeners about interference of satellite radio content on many of their stations. As a result, NPR Labs is running tests on several satellite radio devices for several weeks "to...

XM Satellite Radio asked a federal judge to throw out the RIAA's lawsuit on Monday. In the court filing, XM Satellite Radio uses the 1992 Audio Home Recording Act as it's basis for arguement, in fact highlighting the fact that...

XM Satellite Radio is not sitting on their hands when it comes to the PERFORM Act (which the Senate Judiciary could take up as soon as the end of July). Following the misinformed letter from Congressman Tom Latham, here's a...

A concerned reader took XM's advice and contacted his state's congressmen to express his feelings about the PERFORM Act (aka the anti-satellite radio bill), and the response he got back made him really mad. And reading it makes me pretty...

Hallelujah! XM Satellite Radio has restructured their marketing operations by creating a dedicated marketing group for automotive, as well as realigning several senior-level marketing positions.XM veteran Steve Cook has been named to the newly created role of Executive Vice President,...

That's what the latest report from Targetbase (via Billboard Radio Monitor) is seeming to imply. The report projects that the total number of satellite radio subscribers will reach a meager 19.5 million between both XM and SIRIUS by 2010. That...

In spring/early-summer, XM Satellite Radio was supposed to include six additional regional news & talk channels (XM 134 - XM 139) provided by Clear Channel. Now it seems that these channels will not be included in the lineup, but not...

Reading a heated recent post in the Lefsetz Letter (scroll down to "XM/Sirius") made me pause for a bit. There's been grumblings about this for a while, but recently it's gotten louder and louder. XM's marketing sucks.Lefsetz's statement right here...

The FCC will be tackling the issue of Satellite Radio's impact on Terrestrial Radio at their next meeting. The agenda for the FCC Open Hearing includes the item"Digital Audio Broadcasting Systems And Their Impact On The Terrestrial Radio Broadcast...

TimeTrax Technologies - which made a name for itself by allowing recording of satellite radio long before XM and Sirius added time-shifting to their own radios - seems to have disappeared. If you visit their website, it redirects to XM's...

In Forbes today, Bear Stearns analyst Robert Peck noted that XM's website peaked around Father's Day at levels "significantly higher" than average, indicating a possible increase in interest around the holiday. By contrast, Sirius Satellite Radio's traffic stayed within the...

This is pretty interesting. An article in today's Washington Times highlights the draw to Bob Dylan's show on XM Satellite Radio: Rock legend Bob Dylan draws about 1.7 million listeners on XM Satellite Radio, making his weekly show one of...

If you take a look at XACT's website, you'll notice that only the XACT Visor has a "buy" button next to it. Similarly, on Directed Electronics' website the Sirius Starmate Replay, along with the Sirius One, are no longer available.Combined...

This is an old article about the Sirius and XM mergerOrbitcast has been relentlessly covering the satellite radio merger since the rumors began in early 2005. If you're researching the Sirius/XM merger, you may want to check the Merger tag,...

I'm not really sure if this is a big deal or not, but it appears that Audiovox has pulled all their satellite radios from their website. That includes both Sirius and XM units. If you go to Audiovox's website and...

With XM Satellite Radio and the RIAA going head-to-head against each other, XM is making sure that the Artist Community understands their commitment to them. It's a smart move, and a necessary one, because music is the center of satellite...

Interesting... looks like Mr. Willie Nelson may have a new satellite radio program in the works. Aside from talking about his BioWillie biodiesel stations, my guess would be that this will feature concerts from his Willie's Place Theater.Willie's Place Theater...

The CEA (Consumer Electronics Association) posted an advertisement in a Capitol Hill publication urging legislators to oppose restrictions on satellite radio. The ad pulls no punches, highlighting some of the self-benefitting dreck that the RIAA, MPAA and ASCAP have spouting...

XM Radio is enlisting the help of their subscriber base in the war against anti-satellite radio legislation with an open letter to subscribers. In it XM states:... the big record labels want more—so they are suing XM and pressuring Congress...

Related to this weekend's Interoperable Technologies disocervy, it looks like XM Satellite Radio is helping out in the recruiting effort to hire engineers. See the job description below: Job Title: Electrical/Computer Engineer (Job #1219) Company Name: XM Satellite Radio Job...

Dual-subscribers of both Sirius and XM Satellite Radio may have hope afterall of consolidating both their subscriptions into a single unit - very soon. Introducing Interoperable Technologies, a joint effort supported and funded by both XM and Sirius, working to...

As part of XM Satellite Radio's expanded EAS initiative, XM is also working to develop a crank-powered satellite radio receiver that would allow listeners to receive signal during power outages. So during emergency situations where terrestrial radio networks are down...

XM Satellite Radio has recently pitched the US Government on expanding their EAS (Emergency Alert System) broadcasts to include a crisis command and control initiative. You'll recall during the Hurricane Katrina relief effort, XM enabled a dedicated channel (ch 248...

Looks like there's a new XM Radio commercial making the rounds, this time highlighting (gasp!) XM's content.Aside from the commercial with the stuff falling from the sky, I'd say this would be one of my favorites. Not because it's wacky...

A House panel has approved draft language of the Section 115 Reform Act (S1RA), which addresses various aspects of digital song licensing and royalty distribution. S1RA is backed by the Digital Media Alliance (DiMA), National Music Publishers Association (NMPA), and...

FMQB has an incredible interview with XM Satellite Radio's Chief Creative Office Lee Abrams. It covers everything from O&A and CBS Radio, to Lee's incredible history, to the faults (and advantages) of terrestrial radio, and to even (gasp!) the current...

That's the question that Electronic Business is asking and with little foundation behind the question other than the fact that they didn't renew after a 3-month trial period. Yes, the stocks have been pummeled lately, but that's based more off...

SIRIUS Satellite Radio has entered into an agreement with Space Systems/Loral for the design and construction of a new satellite that will be one of the most advanced and powerful communications satellites ever built. Construction of the satellite is expected...

With the introduction of the Pionner Inno and Samsung Helix, advertisers looking to capture the 'small screen' audience now have a new opportunity available to them. XM is now selling ad inventory to be displayed on the Inno's color screen...

The brainchild of Stevie Wonder, songwriters/producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff and Motown founder Berry Gordy, among others; June was officially declared "Black Music Month" by President Jimmy Carter in 1979. Both XM and SIRIUS have kicked off their special...

 SIRIUS' EVP/CFO, David Frear, today at the Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference confirmed that all SIRIUS Satellite Radio receivers are in full FCC compliance. Some letters were sent regarding some Sirius devices that were out of spec. Frear stated that they...

This according to Forbes after BofA Analyst Jonathan Jacoby wrote in today's research note: "The FCC issue could be more pervasive than previously believed. We believe that XM and Sirius could temporarily suspend retail shipments of certain radios, but the...

Earlier today word came in that XM has stopped selling certain radio from their kiosks and from their online store. As further investigation showed that only satellite radio receivers with an FM-Modulator were the units being pulled. On XM's Online...

XM Satellite Radio has reported a change to its subscriber and financial guidance for 2006, projecting that it will end 2006 with 8.5 million subscribers (down from earlier guidance of 9 million), resulting in subscriber revenues of $835 million and...

Satellite Standard Group points out to us that SIRIUS Satellite Radio is now showing up in Home Depot stores, just in time for Father's Day. Very interesting point of purchase. At first glimpse you would think that Home Depot is...

Dave Zatz got his hands on a new Altec Lansing XM3120 Powered Audio System. It's a nice succinct review and worth checking out if you're in the market for a tabletop for your RoadyXT/Xpress. Personally I'd like to see more...

There's another TV commercial spot by SIRIUS Satellite Radio that's been running, this one entitled 'Trunk' - you might have spotted it during this week's LOST (at least that's where I saw it). Well, now it's online or you can...

Here's some more gory details on the suit against XM Satellite Radio by the Record Industry. This suit does not just affect XM, and not even just SIRIUS indirectly (with their new wearable coming out soon, there's no doubt...

Walt Mossberg is considered one of the most influencial people in technology. He has the abilities to make or break products by a simple wave of his hand (or something like that). For those not necessarily entrenched in the tech...

Yesterday the record industry filed suit against XM Satellite Radio for "massive wholesale infringement," caused by the Samsung Helix and Pioneer Inno. The suit seeks $150,000 in "damages" for every song copied by XM customers using the device. How exactly...

Reuters is reporting that Audiovox is suspending shipments of the Xpress Model XMCK10 XM Satellite Radio plug-and-play receiver after the U.S. Federal Communications Commission said the unit did not comply with either operating bandwidth or related emission specifications. Audiovox has...

Well this is just fantabulous. The Perform Act - which you'll recall is an anti-satellite radio bill introduced in the Senate - is now getting a little sister, thanks to Reps. Howard Berman (D-Calif.) and Mary Bono (R-Calif.). The Platform...

SIRIUS Satellite Radio's David Frear said at a Q&A session with investors this week, "There are roughly 11-million satellite radio subscriptions in the country which is about five percent penetration of the core target which is the car universe. "When...

Yesterday Google Trends was launched, unveiling for the first time a historical representation of what search terms are being entered into Google. Up to five search terms can be queried, and Google even highlights milestones in news events that could...

SIRIUS Satellite Radio has teamed up with the Archdiocese of New York to create a 24-hour, 7-day a week lifestyle radio channel entitled, The Catholic Channel, expected to launch in the fall. The Catholic Channel will feature a modern...

 Well, we've been hearing all about the upcoming SIRIUS Sportster4, and now SIRIUS has released the official announcement. Read the full press release after the jump... ...

Looks like Visteon is making a play in the portable satellite radio market and has filed a patent (application # 20060094349) for a Dockable portable satellite receiver.Here's the abstract:A portable satellite receiver includes a tuner, an antenna, and an amplifier....

Mother's Day is quickly coming this May 14th, and if you're like the rest of us, you're searching for a great gift that will put all the other sublings to shame. So why not give her the gift that will...

Be Jane Inc, a media firm that develops female-targeted home improvement content, will be provding original content for MSN's new original content venture entitled... wait for it... MSN Originals. Set to launch on July 1st within MSN's Lifestyle channel,...

The chairman of a subcommittee of the House Commerce Committee, Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Fla.) plans to hold a hearing today on audio content and consumer electronics. Stearns will explore fair use, DRM and the need to protect copyrighted works. Gary...

It's great to see the response from readers about how ridiculous The Perform Act is. It's funny how the RIAA is so willing to push legislation against an industry that provides so much potential and opportunity to actually sell music....

With all the uproar that The Perform Act is causing among readers, I thought it would be nice for everyone to read some of Gary Parsons' testimony he made in front of the US Senate."Satellite radio is an American success...

While SIRIUS may have reached agreements with the RIAA over the Sirius S50, these agreements are not applicable for their upcoming live SIRIUS Wearable unit due out later this year.During today's earning conference call, Mel Karmazin suggested the agreement reached...

That didn't take long. Already the big music labels are going after the next-generation XM2go devices. This time, the debate took place in front of the US Senate over the latest onslaught of anti-satellite radio legislature: The Perform Act. The...

Zatz Not Funny has a scan of a Circuit City ad showing the new Inno, Helix and Nexus. Couple funny things to note about this ad: the Nexus' screen shows it being in color - it's actually black & white....

 Ok, so I just got my greasy hands on the Samsung Helix XM2go. For those of you just tuning in, the Samsung Helix is identical to the Pioneer Inno in all things except for form-factor. In fact, maybe the biggest...

Quickly becoming one of my favorite places to read during my lunchhour, the Lee Abrams blog gives us yet another blockbuster post. Mr. Abrams goes into great detail on the goals of XM Satellite Radio to liberate radio, and...

 The satellite radio industry is evolving from what it was only a couple years ago. With the emergence of new "hybrid" satellite radio receivers, like the Pioneer Inno, Samsung Helix, and Sirius S50; the retail outlets that sell them are...

Light Reading has a writeup on their revised satellite radio subscriber projections, and on the conservative side, they're estimating over 17.2 Million total subscribers between SIRIUS and XM in the next 18 months.Based on SIRIUS' growth from July 04...

Celebrities in Satellite Radio are a key aspect to driving public awareness of each service. In general, most celebrities don't spend much time on the air, but that doesn't really matter. They're meant to get people through the door and...

Satellite Standard Group has a great post on the NPD Group results released for the month of March and Q106:For March 2006 the NPD market share was as follows:Sirius - 56%XM - 44%For the entire first quarter the NPD share...

Eton has issued a recall for the Eton E1XM AM/FM/Shortwave/XM Satellite Radio receiver, for units found in serial range 3,067 - 5,462.The issue that Eton has discovered is a missing trace on the circuit board. In the event that a...

Last week, XM Satellite Radio was given the Digital Service Vendor of The Year 2005 award from CompUSA. The award was presented on April 10th at an awards ceremony in recognition of XM Satellite Radio’s commitment to CompUSA for merchandising,...

Baseline has a neat little feature called their 100 Smartest Companies. It's put together using a formulaic method applied to figure out the value of each employee at a company, to calculate what they call the Knowledge Value per...

Awareness of satellite radio is on the rise, and quite signficantly. Both XM and SIRIUS have reached equal awareness levels of 61% among people ages 12 and older. A joint study performed by Edison Media Research and Arbitron interviewed...

Since Howard Stern made the jump to SIRIUS in the beginning of this year, SIRIUS.com traffic has seen a healthy jump in traffic according to a study by Nielsen/NetRatings. In January, SIRIUS had over 2.3 million visitors to their website,...

In a wonderfully bold statement, SIRIUS Satellite Radio CEO Mel Karmazin at the Morgan Stanley Global Automotive Conference this morning in New York (audio), threw down a challenge to the music industry. During the Q&A session, someone brought up...

Lexus, which today unveiled their new LS 600h L luxury hybrid sedan at the NYIAS press event, also announced they will offer XM Satellite Radio as standard, factory-installed equipment on the 2007 LS 460 L and the 2008 LS...

An article by Scott Moritz on TheStreet.com yesterday about the possibility of raising subscription rates coming for SIRIUS got me thinking. With word that SIRIUS will be adding a "significant number" of repeaters this year - with the intention...

This according to a report by Bear Stearns analyst Bob Peck after meeting with Jim Meyer, SIRIUS President of Operations and Sales. SIRIUS' new live wearable satellite radio receiver, which has been under close wraps for sometime, is quietly...

   Mel Karmazin, SIRIUS Satellite Radio's superstar CEO, will give the keynote speech at the Morgan Stanley Global Automotive Conference in New York City, next Wednesday, April 12th at 8:00am EDT.Tune into the live audio webcast of the speech online here. ...

That's what The Globe and Mail is reporting at least. The FCC included an interoperability requirement when granting the SDARS licenses to SIRIUS and XM Satellite Radio, but legally they are only required to create the design of this receiver,...

Want to see the Pioneer Inno in action? Of course you do. Here's a quick 5 minute video that takes you through the basics of the interface and highlights some of its features. Those familiar with the 1st-Generation XM2go (MyFi/AirWare/Tao)...

Ok, I finally got a chance to upload some pics of the new Pioneer Inno XM2go. Here's the initial photos, more to come soon... More photos after the jump... ...

Bob Dylan's show on XM Satellite Radio was first annouced to debut in March, but with the month nearly at a close it doesn't look likely that the original deadline will be made. The folks over at the LA Times...

Here's Reuters' report on the rumored takeover of XM Satellite Radio by CBS Radio. I think we're pretty much done here aren't we? I see nothing pointing to it being true....

XM Satellite Radio begins their coverage of the 2006 MLB season this Sunday, April 2nd, with Opening Night in Chicago, as the defending World Series champions Chicago White Sox go against the Cleveland Indians at 8:05 pm ET on XM...

BREAKINGAccording to theflyonthewall:09:59 EDT XMSR theflyonthewall.com: XM Satellite Radio-XMSR trading higher on take-over speculation-Rumor :theflyonthewall.com 09:57 XMSR XM Satellite: rumor of CBS for XMSR; price talk said to be $27 (21.92 +0.12)More on this as news develops. Note: this should...

NTT DoCoMo will debut on April 8th their first mobile phone with a built-in satellite radio receiver entitled the Music Porter X. This is the latest example of cellphones from DoCoMo that attempts to better integrate portable music functionality...

Edward Weber, Jr., SIRIUS' Vice President, Controller and Principal Accounting Officer, resigned on March 27th, 2006. Mr. Weber has been appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Major League Baseball Advanced Media. For being in his mid-30s, that's...

Network LIVE, the joint venture between XM Satellite Radio, AOL and AEG, will multicast country music's 'Redneck Woman' Gretchen Wilson on Wednesday, April 5th at 9:30pm EST. Part of her first headline tour - entitled "Redneck Revolution" - the...

XM Satellite Radio has just officially unveiled its new channel lineup, with the addition of 10 new music channels and 7 regional news/talk channels, bringing the total number of channels to 170. The bump in music channels brings the...

Slow news day, so let's look at trademarks. Could this be related to Sirius' FLW deal?FISHTALK FISHTALK Word Mark FISHTALK Goods and Services IC 041. US 100 101 107. G & S: Entertainment services, namely, providing audio programs featuring music,...

XM Satellite Radio is kicking off the second year of their partnership with the IndyCar Series this Sunday (March 26th) with the 2006 season opener for Indy - the Toyota Indy 300 Presented by XM Satellite Radio at Homestead-Miami...

SIRIUS Satellite Radio has signed a multiyear agreement to sponsor all 12 of the FLW Outdoors tournament trails, including the new Wal-Mart FLW Series and Wal-Mart FLW Kingfish Series. SIRIUS will also field a team of professional anglers who...

Bank of America has been running an on-going survey of Satellite Acquisition Trends (SAT) containing data collected by a 3rd party. I like this survey because as somewhat of a research geek myself, I like to see a 'clean' sampling,...

There's an interesting tidbit of information in SIRIUS' Form 10-k filed this week. We signed an agreement with XM Radio, the holder of the other FCC license to provide a satellite-based digital audio radio service, to develop a unified standard...

There's been some question about why Volkswagen would opt from offering both satellite radio providers to offering only one. It would seem the best thing for VW would be to provide the choice to the consumer.An article in Reuters...

SIRIUS Satellite Radio has inked a deal with Volkswagen of America to offer SIRIUS as VW's sole satellite radio provider for vehicles sold in this country through 2012. Volkswagen will exclusively offer SIRIUS beginning with the introduction of its...

Earlier today a commenter asked whether I had asked XM for their take on the Senate bill meant to block localized satellite radio content. I pinged both XM and SIRIUS on this, and here's what XM spokesperson Chance Patterson had...

...and HD Radio would only have about 8 million listeners by the same time period, this according to Bridge Ratings. Youch, that's even worse than the 10 million HD Radio listeners forecasted by Forrester Research. Bridge Ratings President Dave Van...

Senators Olympia Snowe, Max Baucus, and Trent Lott, introduced yesterday the "Local Emergency Radio Service Preservation Act of 2006." This lovely bill is pushing to prevent satellite radio from developing receiver technology that lets satellite radio broadcasters offer "localized content"...

Sarah McBride at the Wall Street Journal gives us a little more insight into the commercials returning to 4 XM channels.The dispute arose in early 2004, when XM decided to make its music channels commercial free. Previously, XM had run...

Inside Radio is reporting that both XM and SIRIUS will have to pay a 5% tax as Virginia lawmakers lump them in with cable, DBS TV and mobile phones.Apparently this "communications and use tax" passed both houses 2-to-1 and Governor...

So after this morning's post about Clear Channel requiring XM to add commercials to 4 music channels, I had the chance to talk with the b-b-boys over at XM Satellite Radio about this. While Sunny, KISS, MIX, and Nashville will...

What was the impact of Howard Stern leaving CBS Radio? Can Satellite Radio become the new OEM standard? Well, Citigroup recently launched research report brings up exactly those question. The also issues a SELL rating for CBS - that might...

Remember when we heard about the RIAA wanting a bigger piece of the action from satellite radio? It now seems that they want to up the ante by 4-5 times the current rate... to 30% of revenues. The contract with...

This is an interesting one that came across on USA Today. The article talks about Google getting into "Old Media" like Radio, Print and TV. As you'll recall, back in January, Google acquired dMarc Broadcasting which is a company...

Is Apple preparing to stream satellite radio content as podcasts in their iTunes music store? That apparently is what The Register reported recently. The president of Universal Music Group's digital division, Larry Kenswil, was speaking at the Digital Music Forum...

A funny article by Daily News radio writer David Hinckley highlights the Talkers Magazine "Heavy Hundred" list recently released. I have a couple issues with this list, and also with David's take on it.1. The list is for the Top...

TWICE reports that the incredibly tiny XM Passport next-gen XM Connect-and-Play satellite radio tuner/antenna will be available in late-May/early-June. The 1.3-inch by 1.65-inch by 0.44-inch XM Passport mini-tuner will MSRP for only $29.99 and will be distributed exclusively by...

As many of you satellite radio industry investors know, this weekend has been a slaughterhouse since the earnings calls last week. With headlines like Satellite Radio spending frenzy and Satellite radio bleeds cash - you'd think the whole industry is...

According to Inside Radio, XM Radio's Scott Karnedy said at a IRTS Seminar that for the last two years “we’ve been selling the dream" and now they can "move the needle." Even so,SIRIUS' SVP Sam Benrubi says satellite radio is...

An interesting article on TWICE says exactly that. Apparently XM's contract with many suppliers prohibits the selling of XM Connect-and-Play style technology, without having some costly repercussions.Snip: During XM's contract period, home audio suppliers wanting to offer Sirius service are...

SIRIUS Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio have both announced deals with Subaru to offer satellite radios as options for several 2007 model year vehicles.SIRIUS radios will be offered as a port and dealer installed option in the 2007...

BIGresearch ran a study recently that profiled the influencing factors for purchasing decisions by satellite radio listeners. Oddly enough, and I know this is going to shock everyone, but one of the things they learned is that the lack of...

Speck Products has just released a line of Skin-Tight Skins for the Delphi MyFi and the Sirius S50. Well known in iPod circles for their well made iPod covers (they make skins for the Crackberry and the RAZR as...

Using XStreamXM and SiriuCE, you can listen to your favorite online streams of both SIRIUS and XM the on Treo 700w. When connected to Verizon's EV-DO high speed network, and you're good to go.Welcome to the very beginnings of...

According to a study by Deloitte, in 2006: search will displace email as the most used digital application, girls will hit the video games, and subscription radio will soar. Using the interesting moniker "Subscription Radio 2.0" - Deloitte predicts radio will...

Wachovia Securities senior media analyst Jeffrey Wlodarczak had some pretty harsh words to say about the satellite radio industry as whole, especially about XM Satellite Radio. “It is hard to argue that Sirius and XM valuations are not implying an...

A loyal reader of Orbitcast - let's call him Proper Modulation - sent in this bit, and I gotta admit it's a great idea. He recently learned that the FM transmitter on his satellite radio receiver is a bit stronger...

Both XM Satellite Radio and SIRIUS Satellite Radio are featuring special programming for the 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards on February 8th, 2006. SIRIUS will be broadcasting special music and commentary programs that will highlight all the excitement and drama...

It's always facinating to see how flawed some of these "surveys" are, and while not only flawed, how transparently biased they actually are. Take this press release from the American Media Services as an example. How can you actually take...

A loyal reader sent me this article on The Desert Sun where Rush Limbaugh talks about his views of Satellite Radio and the growing speculation that he may be making the jump.Q. What are your thoughts about satellite radio? A....

Back in December I spotted this tidbit on Mercury News, about an in-helmet satrad sound system that Kawasaki is working on. After some back and forth with Kawasaki's Jeff Herzog (who was amazingly open to communications - hat tip to...

A loyal reader sent in this link to me a couple days ago. It's a long-ish read, written by Bridge Rating's guest columnist Bob Lefsetz, but it's one that outlines perfectly the problem with music today. Reading it you understand...

It's sort of a slow day today, so I figured I'd put together some interesting news bits that have been floating around since morning... Opie and Anthony To Stern: Bring It On - Sure to stir up the bee's nest...

So says the New York Times in an article published today:Two new XM receivers, the Samsung Helix XM2go and the Pioneer Inno, identical devices that will sell for $400 when they go on the market in March, will be able...

Wow, 14 Million iPods were sold last quarter - that's over 100 sold nonstop every minute - and over 42 Million iPods have been sold total. Talk about an increasing adoption rate.Anyone who thinks that satellite radio can just rest...

So yeah, we all learned yesterday that the Pioneer Inno won the CNET People Voice Award at CES, but a press release was also issued celebrating the fact that it won PC Magazine's Last Gadget Standing. Woohoo!Dr. Stell Patsiokas, XM...

Gizmodo got hands-on time with the Samsung Helix, and apparently one of their gripes is that the interface seems to lag a bit, especially in the "tagging" department for XM+Napster features. I would assume this is still a prototype...

SIRIUS Satellite Radio is launching a new 24/7 Playboy radio channel in early 2006 called (wait for it) Playboy Radio. SIRIUS' Playboy Radio will feature new original programming, like a new morning show that will include segments with the only...

Oh sure those fancypants portables get us uber-geeks all excited, but some people just want a tried and true plug-and-play satellite radio receiver. Why? Because they're affordable for one, and second they do what 90% of people need them...

Lookie lookie, Sirius has got some goodies too. Enter the Xact Power Pod II. Powerpacked with 4 hours of listening time, and an integrated antenna parked very conventiently on the top of your head, this looks like it'll make...

Eton announced their new Sirius Ready Satellite Radio reciver, called The Eton Sound Radio. It's a table-top radio that combines FM Radio with SIRIUS technology and it's Eton's first Sirius product. The Sound comes in black, blue, red and white,...

Amidst all the hooplah surrounding the Samsung Helix, we come to find out that the Samsung NEXUS has undergone some changes as well. First and most importantly, they've changed the funky spelling from "neXus" to "NEXUS" - which is...

Introducing the XM Passport - a tiny, portable satellite radio tuner that delivers XM Satellite Radio to XM-Ready enabled products in your home, car, and portable use utilizing XM Connect and Play technology. The XM Passport measures only 1.3...

Delphi will supply XM Satellite Radio capable receivers for the Hyundai Santa Fe, Azera and Elantra. Hyundai is the first automaker to add standard satellite radio to its full vehicle lineup. In less than 20 years, Hyundai has moved into...

Here it is - the beginning of the end of 2005. And as always with year-end celebrations, predictions for what's to come in the following year are in order. Who knows if any of these will ever come true, but...

A group called Morality In Media, who sound like the life at the party, issued today what appears to be the worst press release ever written. Regardless of the writing style, or to the brevity of its headline, these people...

MSNBC columnist Gary Krawkow strikes again, this time with the incredible statement that "Howard Stern might be leaving terrestrial radio at the wrong time." Ugh. The entire article, seemingly a commercial for iBiquity and their technological breakthrough - HD Radio,...

Circuit City released their 3Q05 results and saw a total sales increase of 14.7%. The Audio sector alone produced a double-digit comparable sales increase, with a double-digit comparable stores sales increase in mobile audio products - much thanks to growth...

The NY Times has a nice piece on Bob Dylan joining up with XM Satellite Radio. The graphic to the right make it even more interesting with the NY Times visually pitting Dylan against Stern. Bizarre to someone like...

Phillips today announced the launch of its Mobile TV DVB-H (aka "Digital Video Broadcast – Handheld") technology. The device gives live access to digital TV via cell phones, portable media players and similar products. Now, Phillips worked with Crown Castle Mobile...

Has anyone seen the recent Consumer Reports article on Satellite Radio? Some interesting stuff in there. They did a survey and discovered that 71% of respondants are highly satisfied with their satellite radio service. And 89% said they would definitely,...

There's no doubt the Sirius S50 is a huge leap forward in satellite radio receivers offered by Sirius, but one big request that many people are asking is: when can we have true portable live Satellite Radio? The answer was...

WorldSpace, you know that "other" satellite radio provider, recently announced that they've reached 100,000 subscribers. WorldSpace has been doing a major push in India recently, ensuring they've grabbed hold of that market while it's booming, and I believe the growth...

These are some eye-popping numbers coming from SG Cowen analyst Tom Watts. In his research report he raised his estimated subscriber count to 74 million through 2015 (this up from his previously estimated 60 million). For XM he estimates ending...

So says Forbes, and I've written about this in the recent past. The RIAA continues to rear it's ugly head with satellite radio and the expiration of XM's and Sirius' contract in 2006. "On the [MP3-enabled] device issue, we believe...

This is awesome! The latest version of AOL Instant Messenger, Triton, improves upon a bunch of neato services like its current voice and video chat services, but also adds new awesome features like Internet calling (going after Skype) and access...

Jupiter Research has released a forcast that predicts satellite radio subscribers will increase to 55 million subscribers by 2010. This, up from an installed base of 12 million units in 2005. Very interesting. With XM stating 6 million subscribers and...

"The Radio Chick" Leslie Gold has dumped Sirius Satellite Radio and is joining Infinity's WXRK (92.3 "Free FM") in New York. She'll be the new afternoon drive host there, commercials and all, starting January 3rd. Her four-hour program will also...

XM + Napster Beta has been released! You can try out the 14-day free trial, but note that you must be an XM Radio Subscriber to use the service.The XM + Napster full service costs $9.95/month, while the XM...

Both the Sirius S50 and the Samsung neXus made an appearance in TIME Magazine's Bye-Bye Wires article:• Sirius S50 Portable Music Player Record Sirius satellite radio to take with you on the subway or plane, where the service isn't available....

The DirecTV / XM Satellite Radio deal launched today. If you're a DirecTV subscriber, you can tune in to the 72 XM Satellite Radio channels offered on DirecTV on channels 801 - 879.The addition of XM to DirecTV's offering nearly...

Here we go again. Senator Ted Stevens once again is talking about imposing indecency regulations on satellite radio. According to Radio & Records, Senator Stevens told a group of broadcasters that he intends to "do his best" to push for...

Both XM and SIRIUS have announced that additional airplay on their channels will be impacting the Billboard Radio Monitor. Originally, only SIRIUS Hits 1 and XM Top 20 on 20 were to be included the Mainstream Top 40 Chart, but...

TWICE today has an article (reg req'd) about the RIAA's push for incorporating a time-out function for time-shifted devices, like the much desired Sirius S50 and the sought after Samsung neXus and Dell DJ Satellite MP3/Satellite Radio units. And while...

A trio of proposed bills began circulating this week on Capitol Hill. Legislation that would place recording limitations on portable satellite radio players, handicapping their functionality. The three bills are the “Analog Content Security Preservation Act of 2005” (PDF), the...

Under pressure from radio broadcasters, Arbitron announced it would delay reporting listening to satellite radio and Internet radio in its syndicated surveys to Summer 2006, at the earliest. Apparently the concern was that the new diary instructions would be actually...

Nissan has tapped XM Satellite Radio as its factory-installed satellite radio solution for Infiniti and Nissan vehicles beginning with the 2008 model year. More than five hundred thousand Nissan and Infiniti vehicles with factory-installed XM Satellite Radio are projected to...

Circuit City conducted a survey recently for the upcoming holiday season to see what product categories consumers are interested in. According to the results, over 40% of U.S. families plan to go out less and entertain more at home citing...

Whoa. Talk about a promotion. To celebrate the first game of the 2005 World Series, and of course to leverage their relationship with the MLB, XM Satellite Radio will offer a free satellite radio to every fan who enters U.S....

MP3 Newswire has a great article on the ongoing negotiations between XM and SIRIUS with the RIAA. If you remember, the RIAA recently has objected to the upcoming MP3/Satellite Radio devices like the Sirius S50, Samsung neXus and now the...

The NDA from the Secret Room at the XMas In August event has been lifted as of October 15th. I can finally talk about this thing! Legg Mason took almost no time to leak out info on it after the...

Sirius Satellite Radio has been recognized for call center operation customer satisfaction excellence under the J.D. Power and Associates Certified Call Center Program. For certification status, a call center must perform within the top 20 percent of customer service, based...

Slashdot: The RIAA could be seeking $1 Billion from XM Satellite Radio and SIRIUS Satellite Radio for the new music licensing contracts covering 2007 - 2012. The current $80 Million contract expires in 2006. I personally don’t think anything will...

Agere Systems, the chip supplier to Sirius, has recently filed for a patent to create a repeater device that broadcasts over a wireless local area network (WLAN). The idea would be to receive the satellite signal, and reformat the bitstream...

Wow. This is big news. XM Satellite Radio and DIRECTV have partnered together to deliver XM content to DirecTV’s 14.6 million customers starting on November 15th. 72 channels of XM’s programming will be available via DIRECTV, almost doubling the current...

New York Post: This doesn’t look good. According to this article, the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) has been raising a suspicious eyebrow at the two latest MP3/Satellite Radio devices - the Sirius S50 and the Samsung neXus -...

The Wall Street Journal today has an inspired article written by someone who is obviously hooked on satellite radio (much like everyone reading this blog). The thing I like about the WSJ article is that writer Jeffrey Zaslow focuses on...

I know these have been going on for sometime now, but it’s worth mentioning for those who don’t know - Sirius Satellite Radio has an ongoing auction with some of the coolest stuff I’ve seen yet (Super Bowl XL VIP...

A study by Bridge Ratings & Research since Fall 2004 has some pretty interesting results. According to the study, Sirius Satellite Radio will gain an estimated 980,000 new subscribers from October through December, and pick up another 500,000 in January,...

XM Satellite Radio just announced they’ll offer play-by-play coverage of every game for home and visiting teams’ broadcasts of the American League Championship Series (ALCS), National League Championship Series (NLCS), and the 2005 World Series. In addition to the game...

So Apple announced yesterday it’s new iPod nano, which is definitely a sexy product. They also finally unveiled the Motorola ROKR iTunes Phone, which is seemingly “blah” in my opinion (100 songs? c’mon). But admist all the mayhem, Apple also...

The American Red Cross and XM Satellite Radio have joined forces to start up Red Cross Radio (XM Channel 248), a 24-hour XM channel to give news and information for Hurricane Katrina victims, Red Cross workers along the Gulf...

XM Satellite Radio will launch a new talk and lifestyle channel targeting women called Take Five. This new women's channel will feature daily satellite radio broadcasts of the Emmy Award-winning "Ellen DeGeneres Show," and the new "Tyra Banks Show," as...

Alpine/Sirius Satellite Radio + Traffic Tuner The SIR-ALP10T SiriusConnect tuner is the first SIRIUS Satellite Radio tuner to incorporate both audio and traffic data services. Compatible with all Alpine satellite radio-ready headunits, the SIR-ALP10T can also interface with the new...

Own a GM but want to get Sirius instead of XM? Now GM owners with satellite radio enabled vehicles can get SIRIUS installed with the GM SiriusConnect unit. Compatable with over 50 2003+ GM vehicle models (some require satellite radio...

Now you can add Sirius Satellite Radio to new or existing Sony headunits. The Sony SiriusConnect supports pass-through functionality (for Sony CD changers or other UniLink accessories) and can be installed in any vehicle. Compatable with many Sony UniLink headunits...

Continuing with out coverage of the Sirius 2005 Holiday Preview, here’s the XACT XTR3CK Visor. A compact satellite radio unit, with a unique rotary control knob, the XACT Visor also has an easy to read 1-line, 16-character display that will...

The XACT XTR8CK features the same 44-minute Replay capabilities as it’s brethen, as well as the new SIRIUS-Seek function which alerts up to 30 artist names and/or song title combinations. The XTR8CK also includes a 5-line wide-screen display, a sweet...

Similar in form as the original KT-SR3000 Sirius Satellite Radio unit, the updated JVC Replay KT-SR3000 Plug and Play is enhanced with new Replay features including the 44-minutes of satellite radio time-shifting, 6-line display, 30 channels presets, S-Seek, Game Alert,...

So it's time to do the round up of the new offerings by Sirius for the 2005 Holiday Season. To be honest, I don't really have many in-person photos of some of these units because I was so absorbed with...

BIGresearch ran a study profiling the average satellite radio listener and has delivered some very interesting (and hilarious) results. We're a buncha fat, 40-year-old, money spending, unhealthy men with too much leisure time and most of us own dogs. Damn....

This is the Sirius One unit. I need to catch a train, so uhhh.. I’ll update more on this later. One more photo after the jump…...

And so as Orbitcast gave you a sneak peek at the Starmate Replay, now here’s the up-close-and-personal photos with the actual unit. Very gorgeous, but I have to admit that I didn’t play with it all that much because I...

I just got back from the Sirius 2005 Holiday Preview event and I have to say I am extremely impressed with their new offering. The Sirius S50 is especially really really exciting to see. The press release photo is one...

Sirius has unveiled its first wearable (sorta) satellite radio! The Sirius S50 lets you capture and store up to 50 hours of Sirius Satellite Radio content (get it? Sirius + 50 Hours = S50), or a mix of SIRIUS programming...

Billboard Radio Monitor: Arbitron will begin reporting Satellite Radio listenership as part of their syndicated ratings survey, beginning with the Fall 2005 survey. All satellite radio channels will be eligible, but only to those channels that have enough of...

An anonymous tipster sent us this juicy product sheet on the upcoming Sirius Starmate Replay, much like the Sportster IR the Starmate Replay will have time-shifting functions for live satellite radio broadcasts. This also marks what is rumored to...

XM Satellite Radio will debut a new six-part series spotlighting country music star Shania Twain starting on Monday, August 22 at 9am ET on Highway 16 (XM Channel 16). The show “Shania Twain: Forever and For Always,” hosted by Shania...

So it appears that the FCC has reported that the number of complaints dramatically decreased recently. Overall, the number of radio and television complaints went from 317,833 in the end of 2004 to 157,650 in 2005 (of which only 634...

XM Satellite Radio’s Latin music hits channel Alegria (Channel 90) will now focus its format on Reggaeton, the hugely popular Latin Hip Hop music genre. Reggaeton music, produced by XM’s programming staff, will now make up the majority of...

The Reverend Jesse Jackson and executives from The Word Network hand-delivered over 15,000 protest letters this week to Sirius Satellite Radio, arguing their decision to end Word Network broadcasts when the current contract expires on September 2nd. Jesse Jackson is...

Richard Simmons will create and host a weekly three hour talk show that will air exclusively on SIRIUS beginning on Sunday, October 2nd. On his SIRIUS radio show, airing Sundays from 3 pm to 6 pm ET, Simmons will read...

The GPX-HMW9815CNP has a name that rolls off the tongue like razorblades, but that's all forgotten with hot looks, great sound and an incredible price. This GPX tabletop system plays CD/CDR/CDRW/MP3/WMA encoded discs as well as AM/FM radio and...

Oops, just realized I had more photos from the XMas in August event. These are all the tabletop/tuner systems, including the new unit from GPX and the gorgeous Eton receiver (below). Yep, you guessed it, more pics after the jump…...

Here's just a TON of pics from the XMas In August event. Warning, this will dog most non-broadband connections (which serves you right you cheap bastards). Check the rest out after the jump:...

This is another tiny tiny tiny unit, with an incredible multi-line display. Again, more details in a few.. but here’s a couple pics for some yummy goodness....

Wanna know why it’s called the Delphi Roady XT? Because this thing is eXtra Thin baby (get it? Roady + X + T = RoadyXT) holy shizzle my dizzle. This is the smallest ever satellite radio unit. Orbitcast first...

Altec Lansing and XM Satellite Radio have announced the release of two Altec Lansing speaker systems to be released in October, offering full-bodied digital amplification for XM listening in the home, office, backyard, beach and other locations beyond the car....

Both SIRIUS and XM have announced they’ll contribute airplay data for the Billboard Radio Monitor Mainstream Top 40 Chart. Songs played on Sirius’ its flagship pop music channel, SIRIUS Hits 1, will be included in the airplay charts published in...

PaidContent: The NAB has filed a petition (warning: PDF) with the FCC to deny the transfer of WCS licenses to XM Satellite Radio or at the very least to remove XM’s application for the licenses from “streamlined” consideration. This isn’t...

With the Stern Show going to Sirius Satellite Radio in January, there’s no way he could have a censored TV show as well. Even though the E! show was broadcast on cable, during the “safe” time, we still had...

XM Satellite Radio and Arlington County (in Virginia) have hooked up to offer the Arlington Alert emergency broadcast service to XM subscribers. Covering key areas like the Pentagon and Reagan National Airport, these emergency alerts are pretty vital to interests...

During the Q&A session at Sirius’ Q2 report, there was a question about the possibility of using Arbitron data for advertising sales. Mel’s response, which must be applauded in my opinion, was simply that ?we think their methodology is archaic...

XM Satellite Radio and the New York Times have partnered together to provide news, info, and music programming from the the NYT’s new radio division. XM will place news, features, reviews and commentary from newspaper and radio employees of the...

Delphi and WorldSpace today announced that they’ve signed an agreement to provide mobile satellite radio in India. The launch will begin in India, and subsequently will expand to China. Under the agreement, Delphi will provide the satellite radio hardware that...

XM and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) have hooked up and signed a three-year agreement to broadcast the 2005 US Open finals and semi-finals. XM will be considered the "Official Satellite Radio of the US Open" which... really isn't...

This article in Information Week points out the fact that XM Satellite Radio will be creating a specific Hyundai channel that would broadcast only to the XM Standard Equipped Hyundais. “Why would anyone listen to the “Hyundai channel” over...

Yep, it’s official now. Awesome....

XM announced their Q205 Results, and here’s the jist of it all: Quarterly revenue increased 136 percent over last year’s quarter to $125 million They had 647,226 net subscriber additions in the second quarter They ended the Quarter with 4,417,490...

Napster and XM Satellite Radio have announced a massive partnership, and the debut of the XM + Napster online music service. With XM + Napster, users will be able to access, purchase and download XM and Napster content. Expected...

The NY Times reports that a new Public Radio International program, “Open Source from P.R.I.” will be made available. Not only does the program pull from unfiltered voices and opinions found on blogs, Open Source uses its own blog to...

XM Satellite Radio has entered the motorcycle market with Harley-Davidson’s 2006 Screamin’ Eagle Ultra Classic Electra Glide (FLHTCUSE model), the first motorcycle ever equipped with a standard XM Satellite Radio. This is all part of the Advanced Audio System...

Dallas Wayne and Hillbilly Jim join Mojo Nixon and crew on SIRIUS’ Outlaw Country channel 36. Professional wrestler Hillbilly Jim now hosts Hillbilly’s Jim’s Moonshine Matinee on Outlaw Country on Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm ET (repeated...

This is sorta neat. Digital Home Canada did a poll for Satellite Radio in Canada, and it looks like 65% of repondants said they would. Now, mind you that the type of person who visits Digital Home Canada is...

According to a new Eastlan study, 80% of Americans still have little interest in satellite radio and remain unlikely to subscribe to satellite radio in the future. This reflects similar results to the same study performed back in 2001. The...

Kagan Research forecasts that consumer interest in satellite radio is growing at a rapid pace. Factors such as low churn, new programming and exclusive agreements with auto manufacturers will boost subscriptions for XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio to...

Is it me, or does this guy come across as the biggest dick ever? NAB Chairman Eddie Fritz wrote a letter to the House of Representatives whining about the XM Satellite Radio proposed acquisition of WCS Wireless. Rather than regurgitate...

BusinessWeek brings up (once again) the thoughts and benefits of SIRIUS Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio merging. If not into a single companies, then at the least sharing programming across both platforms. Their argument is that there’s bigger fish...

Oh sure, some may speculate that the new Sony Ericsson W800i “WalkMan” phone is the next iPod Killer, or MyFi Killer, or whatever. But we don’t really care cause there’s glistening wet hotties posing with this phone and danmit that’s...

ABC Radio is working to increase it’s multi-cultural programming and has bagged Steve Harris, former VP of External Programming for XM Satellite Radio, to do the job. In his new position he’ll oversee ABC Radio Networks’ Urban and Hispanic radio...

A recent IDC study on US consumers’ music spending habits has some pretty crazy results, and I’m pretty surprised by the numbers. Check it out - 23% of households spend about $10 to $25 a month on recorded music which...

PricewaterhouseCoopers released it’s Global Entertainment and Media Outlook, and interestingly enough they didn’t feel that Satellite Radio is a big threat to Terrestrial Radio’s advertising share, based on the fact that satellite only has minimal advertising right now. Big Radio’s...

I just wanted to throw the f-bomb into a post title. One of the freedoms that bloggers have and that the mainstream media doesn’t. Fuck figgidy fuck fuck fuck. Oh right, I did have a point here. ‘Jack’ sucks and...

Subaru and a couple other car markers are deciding to play both sides of the fence when it comes to supplying Satellite Radio in cars. Can’t blame them, it’s a good idea to give the customer a choice for several...

The Future of Radio asks that question. With the way the deal has played out so, I don’t think either the US or Canada are very excited. Allowing satellite radio in Canada is great, but c’mon, at what cost?...