Subscribers to US satellite radio service Sirius XM have lost BBC Radio 1. The low-powered network of satellites, great for long car journeys, offers 140 channels, mostly of ad-free music mixes, but some live sport and news services. It charges $16.99 a month for the full set (£10.50 at this morning's rates) plus a rather cheeky $2.99 a month if you want to listen online.
The Radio 1 deal started in June 2005 - announced by Andy Parfitt of blessed memory. Radio 1 was time-shifted for the States, so that Moyles could be heard over breakfast biscuits and gravy. It nestled alongside BBC World Service, Howard Stern, Playboy Radio and much more.
Syndication of BBC Radio used to be organised through the "Radio International" arm of BBC Worldwide - and Sirius plays hardball when it comes to paying broadcasters. It's possible that the impending arrival of a BBC iPlayer on subscription in the States has precipitated the ending/non-renewal of the satellite deal; maybe BBC Worldwide has recognised that radio can add value.
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