Radioplayer and NPR are partnering to deliver enhanced metadata and distribution services to the dashboards of connected cars. The company said their collaboration will enable a better, more connected in-car radio experience for NPR’s listeners.
The partnership announcement was made during NAB Show New York.
According to a joint statement, by using Radioplayer’s hybrid radio technology, NPR’s stations can deliver rich metadata — such as station logos, song information and program details — to connected car dashboards.
Radioplayer CEO Yann Legarson described the partnership as a “major milestone” as the company expands its reach in the U.S. market. “With our focus on enhancing the radio experience in connected cars, we’re excited to bring NPR’s world-class content to more drivers, ensuring that radio remains at the heart of the connected car revolution.”
Badri Munipalla, vice president of distribution at NPR, said the partnership with Radioplayer “opens up new possibilities for NPR member stations to deliver a richer, more interactive experience to listeners in cars.”
In addition, the company said NPR will benefit from the Radioplayer Data Platform, which offers insights into listener behavior and engagement. “This data will enable NPR to optimize content delivery, enhance user experience, and unlock new business opportunities in the connected car landscape.”
Hybrid radio platforms combine traditional one-way, over-the-air broadcast reception with internet connectivity that provides more features for users as well as data about consumer behavior back to the broadcaster. Other examples of hybrid platforms on the market are DTS AutoStage and SiriusXM 360L.
The UK-based Radioplayer is active in the European and Canadian markets through partnerships with broadcasters and automotive manufacturers such as Audi, Volkswagen and BMW. It started with a proposal from the BBC in 2011 for a nonprofit partnership with commercial radio to grow online radio listening and subsequently launched with backing from the BBC, Global, Bauer Media Audio UK and Radiocentre. Radioplayer Worldwide is a partnership between UK Radioplayer and entities in the countries that have rolled out the model. Legarson became CEO in the spring of last year after launching Radioplayer in France, and said international growth was one of its priorities.
