Clear Channel Radio to roll out text-based cellphone applications

Clear Channel Communications Inc. launched a suite of text-based applications that allow radio listeners to make song requests and participate in contests with their mobile phones.
The company rolled out the offerings with five New York radio stations and said it plans to launch similar programs with as many as 100 more stations by the end of next year. Stations in Salt Lake City and St. Louis will deploy the applications within the next two months.
The free service delivers alerts to users before their favorite tunes are played, and allows music lovers to view the last 10 songs played on the stations. Listeners can also opt to receive breaking music news, participate in trivia games and track traffic conditions.
Clear Channel said it plans to expand the service to include content such as station logos, DJ wallpaper and ringtones later this summer.
“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 Clear Channel Radio CEO John Hogan. “Each application allows users to have an individualized, on-demand experience, which will strengthen listeners’ connection with their favorite radio stations.”