NextRadio announced a partnership with BLU, a manufacturer of unlocked Android and Windows phones that can be used with different carriers, or as prepaid phones using BLU’s coverage network. Starting in 2016, NextRadio will be the native FM tuner for all Android devices made by the company. “BLU not only turned on the FM Chip for their current customers but will make it a preloaded on all new phone releases, which makes this a big opportunity for listener and advertiser growth for the entire radio industry,” NextRadio President Paul Brenner said.
NextRadio recently experienced a revision to its pricing scheme, another of the company’s moves to encourage participation from FM stations in the technology. It has also successfully lobbied for FM chip activation in certain smartphones from T-Mobile and AT&T.