Search »

The Changing Face of Radio Is Video

As radio websites begin to include more video - from a simple camera in the broadcast booth to coverage of events to music videos - radio is increasingly becoming a visual medium.

As the audience for radio moves in other direction, to iPods, cellphones, satellite radio and streaming and downloading of music from companies like Yahoo and AOL, radio companies are offering video online in increasing numbers as a way to stay relevant in the digital age, writes The New York Times.

The Times points out that, per Arbitron, while 90 percent of Americans still listen to terrestrial radio, the amount of time they spend listening has dropped by 14 percent over the last ten years.

Video only makes up a tiny fraction of the $20 billion a year that radio generates in ad sales, but it could be a much-needed source of growth in the future, particularly as the online video marketplace is rapidly expanding.

Radio executives and personalities believe their video efforts will be of value to visitors and advertisers because they will capitalize on the traditional strength of radio: bringing in listeners by the use of on-air personalities and local events.