HD Radio Technology Launches Commercial Products at 2004 CES

Strategic Insights -

The International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas marked the formal launch of commercial HD Radio products, a significant step towards transforming the analog radio broadcasting industry into a digital platform. iBiquity Digital Corporation, the sole developer of HD Radio technology, announced the availability of HD Radio receivers for consumers, allowing for CD-quality sound on FM and FM sound quality on AM with no static, hiss, pops, or fades. Industry executives, including Gary Shapiro, President and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association, and Robert Struble, President and CEO of iBiquity Digital Corporation, emphasized the historic moment and the potential for the technology to deliver improved listening experiences and additional services to listeners.

Key Takeaways:

  • The commercial launch of HD Radio products at CES 2004 marked a significant milestone in the transition of the radio broadcasting industry from analog to digital.
  • iBiquity Digital Corporation has developed HD Radio technology, which enables the transmission of digital audio and data alongside existing analog signals.
  • Nearly 300 radio stations in over 100 U.S. markets across 38 states have licensed HD Radio technology.
  • Industry executives, including JVC, Kenwood, Onkyo, Panasonic, and Visteon, plan to bring HD Radio receivers to market, offering consumers improved sound quality and new services.
  • iBiquity Digital Corporation has partnered with leading broadcasters, including National Public Radio, Beasley Broadcast, and Greater Media, to implement HD Radio technology.
  • The company's investors include 15 top radio broadcasters, leading financial institutions, and strategic partners such as Ford Motor Company, Harris, Texas Instruments, and Visteon.

Statistics:

  • 300 radio stations have licensed HD Radio technology in over 100 U.S. markets across 38 states.
  • HD Radio receivers will be available in the market starting later this month, with several models announced by respective manufacturers.
  • The transition to HD Radio technology has the potential to enable a wide range of new services, including store-and-replay, on-demand services, a 'buy' button, Surround Sound, and others.
  • The number of radio stations implementing HD Radio technology is expected to increase significantly in the coming months.

Sources:

  • iBiquity Digital Corporation, http://www.ibiquity.com/
  • Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), http://www.ce.org/
  • International Consumer Electronics Show, CES 2004, http://www.ce.org/ces/
  • PRNewswire, "iBiquity Digital Corporation Announces Formal Launch of Commercial HD Radio Products"