About Satellite Radio Providers
Satellite radio overcomes the locality limitations of frequency modulation (FM) radio and is able to provide radio service that covers many regions. Because satellite radio employs costly satellite technology, users must subscribe to satellite radio providers and often pay a monthly fee. The largest satellite radio provider in the United States is Sirius XM.
Sirius XM Merger
- Sirius XM is the result of the merger between XM radio and Sirius, formally two separate entities providing satellite radio services to millions of subscribers.
- XM radio was initially founded in 1992 as the American Mobile Radio Corporation. The station officially began using satellite technology in 2001 and became XM radio, providing over 150 stations of music, news, sports, weather and talk.
- Sirius obtained its start in 1990 as Satellite CD Radio, Inc before switching to satellite technology in 2001 and becoming Sirius Radio.
- XM radio and Sirius completed their merger in 2008 to become the largest provider of satellite radio services in America.
- The leading figures in politics, sports and entertainment provide countless hours of creative programming that keep subscribers coming back for more.
- Over 20 million listeners tune in each month to enjoy the commercial-free music and limited commercial talk radio stations that Sirius XM delivers.
Subscription Costs
As of 2011 the monthly subscription rate for Sirius XM radio services range from $12.95 to $16.95 per month, with annual rates available starting at $199. A special satellite radio is necessary to pick up the programming and Sirius XM radio has partnered with auto manufacturers to have these satellite radios built into several different car brands. Users can also purchase satellite radios wherever electronics are sold.