Is XM/Sirius a threat to internet radio?

[VAXman(Admin)]

Originally Posted by Sven

Where You live, no problem. In Germany f.e., the costs for mobile Internet connections via cell phone (GSM-GPRS-UMTS-HSDPA provider) are huge.
WiMAX, HSDPA or EVDO services are not avaiable here.

Neither is satellite radio... at least, not Sirius or XM.

My EVDO gives me rates of about .25T1 for a flat rate of $60/month. Not bad considering I can go most anywhere and have internet. I've found that I get a better connection rate when staying in a hotel with wireless simple because I am not sharing a small pipe from the wirless access point to the internet with hundreds of other hotel guests.

I think that the EVDO is the best option overall. I get internet access to so many things. I can have streaming music when I drive; thus, no need for satellite radio. I can get driving directions; thus, no need for a navigational system. Weigh that $60/month against the subscription fees for satellite radio and a navigation system subscription and I'd bet it's a wash. Plus, I get more than just music and directions. In fact, if I needed to, I could make phone calls too!

I think XM missed the boat when it came to program content. They hurt themselves and now are looking to merge with Sirius. Sirius got a late start in contrast to XM. They are both hoping that by merging they can stem the tide of the inevitable. I forsee the day when wireless internet access with be ubiquitous and, even if ubiquitous wireless is a for fee franchise, the ability to roam about on the internet will preclude many other for fee services offered now.