XM Satellite Radio has received nationwide terrestrial network authority necessary to commence commercial operations from the Federal Communications Commission and has rescheduled launch of the first U.S. digital satellite radio service for Tuesday, Sept. 25. XM had originally scheduled its launch for Sept. 12, but postponed it following the tragic events of September 11th in Washington, where the company is based, and in New York. Those events also led to federal shutdown and interruption in the FCC's repeater network authorization process."We are grateful that the FCC has moved so expeditiously in the face of the tragic events that have obviously affected all aspects of government," states XM President and CEO Hugh Panero. "It is important that all U.S. businesses return to some state of normalcy. The Federal Government is working, the stock market is open and now it's time for new businesses like ours to show that the tragic events will not deter us."
The FCC's action gives XM the Special Temporary Authority it requested to operate its terrestrial repeaters on a nationwide, non-interference basis until March 18, 2002. By then, the FCC should have completed its rules for permanent operation of repeaters.
XM will expand its launch throughout the Southwest in mid-October and across the country in November. Leading manufacturers will offer 24 models of XM radios, a broad array including universal models that will easily enable any existing car stereo system to receive XM service, and new AM/FM/XM systems offering many other great features. Sony, Alpine and Pioneer XM radios are being distributed through major electronics retailers including Best Buy, Circuit City, Sears, Tweeter, participating RadioShack Dealers and Franchisees, and Crutchfield. Delphi-Delco systems will roll out initially in Cadillac DeVilles and Sevilles beginning in November, expanding to more than 20 GM models next year.
Link for more info: www.xmradio.com
