¡Che, NextRadio! Android App Now In Argentina

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From El Monumental to Ushuaia, users of Android-powered smartphones now have the ability to listen to live and local FM radio stations through their hand-held device.


Thank NextRadio for bringing consumers in another Latin American nation — Argentina — the technology.

The app went live in the nation’s Google Play store on Friday (4/21), adding a nation known for its fine wines, beef and the River Plate soccer team an app already available in Colombia, Mexico, and Peru.

Broadcasters in the region are involved with the launch and will be working to promote and enhance the listening experience.

“Consumers are seeking us out in Latin America, with little marketing effort, as they already have habits of listening to FM radio on their mobile devices,” said Paul Brenner, President of NextRadio parent TagStation. “More than 80% of smartphones sold in Latin America are Android phones so it is a natural next step to expand the request to handset makers to also include unlocking the FM Chip in Latin America.”

NextRadio is a wholly owned subsidiary of Emmis Communications, which knows a thing or two about Argentine radio.

In December 2003, Emmis sold its controlling interest in Votonis S.A. to Argentine-based minority partners Daniel Hadad and Viviana Zocco for $7 million.

Emmis purchased a 75% interest in Votonis in 1999, long before nationalist policies curbed foreign investment in Argentina and prior to one of two fiscal crisis leading to a steep devaluation of the Argentine Peso.

Votonis operated one AM and one FM in Buenos Aires — leading News/Talker Radio 10 and pioneering “Rock Naciónal” Mega 98.3, launched by Emmis with the assistance of noted consultant David Gleason in 2000.

As of 2012 Radio 10 and Mega 98.3 have been owned by Grupo Indalo, a major TV and radio station operator that also publishes the English-language daily Buenos Aires Herald.

The other major nation in South America’s Cono Sur — Brasil — is set to get the NextRadio app later this year.

Radio consumption in both Brasil and Argentina is among the highest in the world, thanks to unique programming and strong promotion.