Samsung and XM Satellite Radio today said they would be doing business together in the form of new MP3 players with XM Satellite Radio capability. The fruits of this joint labor will be available in two storage capacities and are expected by year’s end. Part of the purchase will also include a XM Radio home accessory kit.
These new flash memory players will feature several interesting functions, the two companies said. Besides being able to store regular MP3 files and the like, the players will also allow XM subscribers connecting through a home or car docking station to record their favorite satellite radio segments for later listening. Subscribers, using their Samsung players, will also be able to identify selected songs they’ve heard for purchase through a music downloading service, as well as being able to create and manage playlists which mix MP3s and recorded XM content.
“Samsung is known for its award-winning line of digital audio players, and we are proud to take the next step with them in the evolution of portable XM Satellite Radio products. Now, consumers can enjoy XM’s live programming plus music from their personal digital music collections in one easy-to-use, elegant player,” said Hugh Panero, President and CEO of XM Satellite Radio.
“Samsung’s innovation and quality standards are world renowned and these products represent our latest breakthrough into satellite radio technology,” said D.J Oh, President and CEO of SEA. “XM’s award-winning programming and technology provide us with a unique opportunity to offer products that empower consumers and fundamentally change the way people listen to music.”