Radio On Demand From 4Radio

Reports in the trade press suggest that 4Radio’s application for the digital multiplex is likely to include the capability of broadcasting on-demand content.

Using technology created by UBC Media Group (see UBC Announces Digital Music Downloading Launch), listeners will be able to buy and store libraries of shows or songs that could then be transferred to personal computers or digital music players.

The on-demand technology will allow twice as many channels to be broadcast than the eight stations now available on the UK’s first national digital multiplex, which is owned and operated by Capital Radio’s parent GCap and masts business Arqiva.

NewsLine reported last week that Channel 4 has signed Emap, SMG, UTV and Disney to its bid for the second national digital radio licence as well as teaming up with CanWest, Universal Music, Sunrise and Gaydar for the bid, with applications for the licence due in by March 28 (see Channel 4 Reveals Digital Radio Partners).

Channel 4 is the clear favourite for the licence, with National Grid Wireless the only other party to have gone public with its interest. According to Broadcast, Channel 4 is expected to announce today its line-up of 10 radio stations on offer if it wins the bid, including a number of 4-branded stations.

Channel Four: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com