iHeartMedia is acquiring audio technology company Radiojar

iHeartMedia, a provider of broadcast and webcast software, has announced plans to acquire Greece-based online audio technology company Radiojar Information Technology S.A. (Radiojar). Through the partnership, iHeartMedia plans to use Radiojar’s centralized, cloud-based audio playout platform to integrate broadcast radio’s capabilities with podcasts and music streaming.

Using Radiojar’s platform, iHeartMedia and its subsidiary, RCS, will be able to edit individual audio elements including DJ voice tracks, music and broadcast spots. iHeartMedia can then produce and sell its own streams, podcasts and other audio content in real-time. Radiojar will also allow individual artists and radio stations to use its tools to produce personal broadcasts.

“Because we lead in all audio categories and understand the entire landscape, from broadcast radio to streaming radio to podcasts, we are always looking for next-generation technologies and services that can complement the overall audio ecosystem,” said Rich Bressler, president, COO and CFO for iHeartMedia, Inc. “We recognize that broadcast radio has a very unique set of programming tools that make listening a smoother and more enjoyable experience. These new capabilities will allow for the seamless nature that has only been available on radio to transition to other audio mediums including digital stations and podcasts.”

“Complementing our recent announcements about our cloud-based scheduling, playout and disaster recovery services, this acquisition will help RCS bring an even wider range of sophisticated online broadcast tools to our customers,” said Philippe Generali, president and CEO, RCS. “In the near future, using cloud-based technology, it will be possible to launch a brand-new radio service across broadcast and digital within minutes of the original idea. The ultimate ‘pop-up’ radio station, if you will.”

“The Radiojar team is excited to be joining forces with the largest audio company in America – iHeartMedia, as well as RCS – a company known around the world for its audio software innovation.” said Stathis Koutsogeorgos, CEO of Radiojar. “We share a vision about the importance of cloud-based technologies, and we look forward to the opportunity to evolve and offer our products and services to an even wider audience.”