Satellite Radio

Satellite radio is a service that broadcasts digital audio signals via satellite and can be received through specially designed satellite radio receivers. The satellite receiver receives a direct signal from the satellite and provides a variety of channels of music and other content to listeners. Most satellite radio equipment requires a subscription to use. It is most commonly used in automobiles where it is a popular alternative to AM and FM radio. Satellite radio offers a variety of programming that is simply unavailable on terrestrial radio. Music stations are categorized by genre, and most are commercial-free. You can also find a wide variety of talk and entertainment channels.

When first introduced, satellite radio was quite expensive and required the installation of a special dish to receive the signals. Eventually, the cost was reduced, and the technology became much more user-friendly. Satellite radio receivers are now built into some automobiles, and the two main satellite radio providers, XM and Sirius, make their products available through car dealers. They also negotiate agreements with car manufacturers and include satellite radio transceivers and receivers in some of their models.

Both XM and Sirius broadcast from satellites in highly elliptical geosynchronous orbits, which means that they cover the entire United States and Canada. Initially, the companies competed to attract marquee talent, including television and radio stars like Howard Stern. The competition was intense, and both companies were laden with debt, which eventually led to their merger in 2008.

Both XM and Sirius offer the same services throughout North America and offer similar channels of music and other content. A major difference is that Sirius carries a few channels specifically geared toward its Canadian subscribers.