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SiriusXM launches handful of free, ad-supported channels

(Logo: SiriusXM/Handout, Graphic: The Desk)

Radio company SiriusXM Pandora is offering a handful of free, ad-supported channels on its satellite radio service.

The move allows former SiriusXM customers and those with lapsed free trials to enjoy a handful of music channels in their cars or through other hardware radios.



The free channels airing on SiriusXM include:

  • Met Opera Radio (Channel 75)
  • HBCU Radio (Channel 142)
  • Korea Today (Channel 144)
  • En Vivo (Channel 152)
  • SiriusXM Hits 1 Preview (Channel 602)
  • 90s on 9 Preview (Channel 609)
  • Classic Rewind Preview (Channel 625)
  • The Heat Preview (Channel 636)
  • The Highway Preview (Channel 656)

The channels are available on SiriusXM’s newest line of 360L Internet-equipped radios, which allow drivers to access the company’s traditional satellite radio lineup along with hundreds of online-exclusive channels.

Last year, then-incoming chief executive Jennifer Witz confirmed the radio company would experiment with offering a limited number of ad-supported stations on inactive, in-car radios.

“This is yet another exciting way we’re making significant long-term investments to drive more share of ear, wallet and ad budgets across our platforms,” Witz said at an investor’s conference in November.

Earlier this year, SiriusXM said it predicted around one in four new vehicles sold in the United States would be equipped with its newest 360L radios.

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About the Author:

Matthew Keys

Matthew Keys is a nationally-recognized, award-winning journalist who has covered the business of media, technology, radio and television for more than 11 years. He is the publisher of The Desk and contributes to Know Techie, Digital Content Next and StreamTV Insider. He previously worked for Thomson Reuters, the Walt Disney Company, McNaughton Newspapers and Tribune Broadcasting.
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