At the 2014 New York Auto Show, Nissan announced their 2015 Murano will have HD Radio Technology. This is the first Nissan model to offer digital AM and FM radio to drivers.
The subscription-free broadcast radio in Nissan vehicles means all the main automotive manufacturers in the United States now offer high definition radio. The factory-installed feature is available in 35 auto brands including Nissan as well as BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Toyota and Volkswagen.
This represents a digital evolution from AM and FM radio. HD Radio Technology provides drivers with crystal-clear sound, extra digital-only FM channels (HD2 or HD3 channels), iTunes tagging and program information, which displays song information on the dashboard screen.
What's Driving This Trend
- Subscription-free HD Radio in Vehicles
- The rise of HD radio technology in vehicles creates an opportunity for audio and advertising companies to innovate in providing new content and monetization strategies.
- Digital Evolution of Radio
- This increase of HD radio offers an opportunity for car audio manufacturers to develop improved systems and components for car radios, compatible with HD radio.
- Integration of Information and Entertainment Systems in Vehicles
- The inclusion of HD radio technology in cars is part of a larger trend in integrating information and entertainment systems, providing an opportunity for developers to create new in-car apps and services.
Who This Affects Most
- Automotive
- Automotive companies should focus on implementing new information systems and technologies like HD radio to provide a better driving experience for the consumer and achieve differentiation from competitors.
- Audio and Advertising
- Audio content producers and advertisers can monetize new HD radio capabilities with targeted advertising and innovative content strategies for the car environment.
- Electronics
- Incorporating high-quality radio technology into vehicles connects the automotive industry with the electronics industry, offering an opportunity for technologically advanced collaboration.
