It seemed like a matter of time when this would be made possible. High definition radio technology and major radio companies announced a new free service called “iTunes Tagging.”
The service allows listeners with HD Radio receivers containing a special tag button, to “tag” songs they hear on the FM dial for subsequent purchase via Apple’s iTunes. At the moment the tagging button is available on limited range of HD radio models produced by Harman International Industries.
U.S. radio operators are working to promote HD Radio, which receives over-the-air terrestrial stations with CD-quality sound and multiple new-program formats, in an effort to better compete with ever increasing digital music options. The industry has pledged to spend $250 million on marketing through the HD Digital Radio Alliance.
A few years ago there was mobile technology developed to “tag” songs on radio for purchase on the mobile which could be shared online but the technology has not taken off or been heard of much after its inception . It would be interesting to see when HD radios will develop critical mass and if this will be successful channel to drive online music purchase.
