CSR has integrated the vTuner internet radio portal into CSR's RadioPro reference design. vTuner is an online service that provides access to over 11,000 radio stations around the world. The partnership with vTuner enables OEMs of RadioPro internet radios to provide their customers with a differentiated product with minimal time to market.
Founded in 1997, vTuner is one of the most established internet radio portals in the world. vTuner allows users to search through thousands of stations according to genre, geographical area and interest. Moreover, users can store their favourite MP3s and stream them directly to their internet radio using vTuner's advanced services. In addition to radio stations, vTuner offers more than 10,000 on demand shows, including the BBC.
RadioPro streams internet radio directly across a Wi-Fi connection, eliminating the need for a PC. Based on CSR's single-chip UniFi Wi-Fi technology, RadioPro is the lowest cost internet radio platform available today, with a BOM of under $15. RadioPro is software upgradeable, allowing users to download new products and features and is also extremely power-efficient, with up to 25hr streaming time when using 1.5AH battery. Already in development with a number of lead customers, products based on RadioPro are expected to be in shops by Christmas 2007.
"Up until now, buyers of Wi-Fi internet radios have faced initial confusion when first looking to access radio content online," said Harry Johnson, President of vTuner. "By including automatic access to our portal with its RadioPro design, CSR has ensured that our customers no longer need to configure their radio to receive stations or pay a subscription cost. There is also no need for manufacturers using RadioPro to source such a service themselves."
"vTuner provides our customers with an easy way to interface with internet radio," said Tracy Hopkins, Vice President of the Consumer Business Unit at CSR. "Users can select stations according to their geographical area, interests and musical preferences. With 11,000 stations available and over ten years in the business, vTuner is an ideal partner for CSR, bringing extensive content and expertise to the table."