Virgin Radio Launches Live Interactive Internet Player

Virgin Radio has this week launched an online media companion that gives internet users extra information about the station and its advertisers alongside the live web broadcast. Called the GIMP, the media player has a live link with Virgin’s broadcasts to show information about the current DJ, the track being played and links to further information about the station’s advertisers.

Virgin says that the system is a preview of facilities that will be available with the advent of digital audio broadcasting. John Ousby, director online for Ginger Media Group, explains: “The GIMP provides us with a good foundation to integrate all our station content in readiness for the digital future, which we intend to be at the forefront of. It will allow us to port relevant radio content to a multitude of devices, including digital radio, mobile phones and digital television.”

The GIMP also offers internet listeners access to news, weather and entertainment reports. This launch comes at the same time as Chrysalis Radio unveils its interactive internet radio broadcasts (see Chrysalis Radio Launches On The Net). Virgin Radio also recently secured its position on the national digital multiplex, run by Digital One, which launches on 15 November (see Virgin Radio Joins Digital One Network).

Virgin Radio: 0171 434 1215 … http://www.virginradio.com/