The New Radios

Sometimes technological innovation takes away. Sometimes it gives. Digital has changed so much of media. The music business was famously rocked by theft and sharing on platforms like Napster. The movie industry filed suit against VCR makers, but later made billions with VHS tapes, DVDs, and streaming video. Print publishers now reach more people than ever — but they reach them online.

Today, television has evolved to a predominantly on-demand medium, having crossed the 50 percent threshold from live TV a few years ago. People watch shows at a time of their choosing, and programs like Grey’s Anatomy get as much as a 60 percent lift from time-shifted viewing.

So, where is radio in this vortex of digital change? It is at a remarkable point: If radio handles itself properly, the way the medium is accessed and heard could change profoundly.

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