Clear Channel Radio has launched customized mobile phone applications for five New York FM stations, the first in a nationwide rollout, allowing listeners to do such things as text message the studio and get alerts when their favorite song is going to be played. CC Radio plans to roll the mobile program out to more than 100 stations by the end of 2008.
First up are CHR WHTZ-FM "Z100," Classic Rock WAXQ-FM, Rhythmic AC WKTU-FM, Urban WWPR-FM "Power 105.1" and AC WLTW-FM 106.7. Users of the new system will be able to send text messages into the studio, participate in contests, receive an alert before their favorite song plays, make requests and dedications, and view the last 10 songs played on their favorite station. The technology is available on most cellular phones via carriers that offer SMS text features.
Cell phones with even basic SMS capabilities will be able to participate via text messaging, said Clear Channel, while more advanced phones will be able to access the services via WAP and enjoy the applications with rich graphics and an enhanced user interface.
Listeners can also sign up for alerts about breaking music news and tune-in times for in-studio performances, interviews and contests. Additionally, users can check current traffic conditions, test their knowledge with station specific trivia, and participate in opinion polls. Starting in July, cell phone users will also be able to customize their individual phones with station logos, DJ wallpaper, and format specific ring tones.
"By making these applications available for free via any cellular phone carrier, Clear Channel Radio is monumentally expanding access to its growing mobile content portfolio," said CC Radio CEO John Hogan.
