Audio just isn't enough for XM
By Ryan Block 
posted Dec 22nd 2004 10:26AM
posted Dec 22nd 2004 10:26AM
Satellite radio is a no-brainer, it just makes sense. But XM (and possibly Sirius) moving to video? That's kind of weird, and we're not entirely sure how they'd intend to truly differentiate themselves from other satellite video providers. Apparently XM's new partnership with Digital Fountain is key, though; their cached-data broadcasting makes it simple for content to remain continuous (but not uninterrupted) after going out of signal range. Even Honda's in on the deal, so we're assuming that we're probably going to hear some car-based sat-vid plan announced at CES. We'll keep you in the know.
Honda is a core investor in XM. That's a damn shame too because I want Sirius in my honda, deeply integrated the way they do XM.
Sirius is also working on video channels.
XM demonstrated a video capability at last year's CES, when Sirius was doing the same. It'd be perfect for Honda and GM minivans! (groan) I don't like the fact that they're using their bandwidth for it, limiting future expansion, and audio quality, of the radio service, but I guess it's their bandwidth to do with as they wish...
Sounds like a cool feature to me. It'd be neat to have a video MyFi, or in-vehicle broadcast. video...
Picture of XM video demo from CES last year...
http://www.xm411.com/phpbb/album_pic.php?pic_id=51
And a picture of the XM Radio service through the video system...
http://www.xm411.com/phpbb/album_pic.php?pic_id=50
It's a matter of time before these exclusive rights deals expire with the auto manufacturers. Now that Toyota signed with both XM and Sirius, you can bet the other guys will want to be able to offer a choise, too....
XM has the better deal with Toyota -- XM will be factory installed, while Sirius will be dealer options -- the factory installs are usually rolled into packages with navigation, etc., so XM has the better deal.