High-tech drive time
Long accused by critics of delocalizing content, radio conglomerate Clear Channel Radio is launching programming that will deliver live, local traffic information directly to vehicles through in-car navigation systems.
The service, offered via annual subscription, is available in Los Angeles and other top markets throughout the country as of today.
Clear Channel is the first U.S. broadcaster to utilize a Radio Data System Traffic Message Channel, or RDS-TMC -- digital technology that broadcasts information through a silent FM data channel.
Available in vehicles equipped with Audiovox RDS-TMC technology -- a dashboard or mirror-mounted receiver that can be purchased separately -- the traffic data are compiled by Clear Channel’s network of reporters, traffic cameras, helicopters and airplanes and appears on a GPS moving map display that is updated every second.
Subscribers don’t need to listen to a Clear Channel station to receive the service. They don’t even have to turn on their radios.
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-- Susan Carpenter
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