SiriusXM, the satellite radio system traditionally included for an introductory amount of time in most vehicles, unveiled a slate of new initiatives designed to introduce a new generation of listeners to its music, talk, news, and sports. The company's fresh era starts with a new streaming app, a refreshed brand platform, and expanded distribution deals.
The biggest update the company is making is its new app, which will be available to subscribers across North America beginning on December 14. Sirius says it will offer a more personalized and easy-to-use streaming experience that will allow for discovery of new content.
Listeners will get a customized 'For You' home page along with sections for music, talk and podcasts and sports. There will also be new pages dedicated to teams, shows, channels, artists, along with a new media player optimized for each type of content, with transcription and speed control, enhanced airplay and other features.
A new search function will make it easier for users to find what they are looking for; a new search home page will also provide curated recommendations. The new SiriusXM will also expand its podcast library and allow fans to save the content they want in one centralized location for offline listening. Those signing up for the first time will be asked questions to tailor their SiriusXM experience by selecting artists, genres, personalities, leagues, and topics that they like.
The second part of the plan is a variety of new channels and show details, including the Kelly Clarkson Connection, a a new year-round channel featuring Kelly Clarkson's music and stories. There's a crime podcast channel curated by Ashley Flowers, the host of Crime Junkie. Singer songwriter John Mayer also gets his own channel with shows hosted by himself, Diplo, Don Was and other music industry greats. Late night comedian James Corden, Dolly Parton and the music of Smokey Robinson also each get new channels.
Looking again to capitalize on new customers, Sirius will offer three new channels dedicated to different genres of music from the 2000s: The Flow (R&B), Flex2K (Hip-Hop), and Alt2K (Alternative Rock).
"In today's digital landscape, where content consumption options continue to grow, traditional radio and satellite providers must adapt to stay relevant. SiriusXM's move to unify its content offerings within a single app, allowing seamless transitions from car to smartphone or other app-based devices, should help retain its existing customer base and attract a fresh cohort of younger consumers," Paul Waatti, manager, industry analysis at AutoPacific told Newsweek.
The final prong of SiriusXM's move is adding new ways to get its programming to listeners. To do so it is collaborating with audiobook company Audible to share content and give subscribers the opportunity to experience each other's offerings beginning in early 2024.
It expanded its current agreement with the Polestar EV company to be pre-installed in select model year 2024 Polestar vehicles. SiriusXM will now also be available to guests at certain Hilton hotels as part of the company's Connected Room Experience, greeting thousands of new guests (and new ears) each year.
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About the writer
Jake Lingeman is the Managing Editor for the Autos team at Newsweek. He has previously worked for Autoweek, The Detroit ... Read more
