Bell Media and iHeartMedia have extended their long-term partnership. This ensures that iHeartRadio Canada remains a leading destination for audio entertainment across the country. The renewed agreement builds on nearly a decade of collaboration, solidifying the companies’ commitment to delivering a broad mix of radio, podcasts, playlists, and on-demand content to Canadian audiences.
The partnership, first launched in 2016, has helped bring iHeartRadio’s brand to listeners nationwide. Through multiple digital platforms, including web, app, and automotive dashboards. Over that time, iHeartRadio Canada has grown into a robust digital audio platform featuring more than 360 licensed Canadian radio stations across 170 markets. Along with access to hundreds of thousands of podcasts.
“The creation of iHeartRadio Canada has been instrumental in evolving the digital audio landscape in Canada. Greatly expanding the choice of incredible content available to listeners,” said Dave Daigle, Vice President, Local TV, Radio, and Bell Media Studios. “The renewal of this successful partnership ensures iHeartRadio Canada continues to deliver exceptional content and innovative listening experiences to our audiences. Further solidifying our position as a leader in the Canadian media industry.”
As part of the extension, Bell Media will continue its role representing iHeartRadio’s expansive podcast portfolio in Canada. Creating new opportunities for advertisers to reach audiences through digital audio. That layer of inventory has become increasingly important as podcast consumption continues to rise across the industry.
Michael Biondo, President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at iHeartMedia, echoed that sentiment. He added that the renewed deal reflects “our shared commitment to delivering the best in audio entertainment to Canadian listeners and advertisers. In the years to come, we’ll continue expanding iHeartRadio Canada. Including innovative features, exclusive content, and unique opportunities for brands to connect and engage with audiences across the country.”
The updated agreement also ensures continued support for iHeartRadio-branded events in Canada. Which have helped extend the platform’s reach through live music and entertainment experiences. Those activations have proven to be a key differentiator for the brand. They will remain part of the growth strategy moving forward.
Additionally, the companies announced a series of new enhancements to the iHeartRadio Canada app beginning today. Among the updates are custom presets that allow users to save up to 15 favorite stations or playlists, a scan button to help sample stations nationwide. A live radio dial designed to mimic the traditional car radio experience. Other features include trending rankers for podcasts, playlists, and artist radio stations. Along with integrated song lyrics — a feature not currently offered by any other digital radio app in Canada.
The free iHeartRadio app remains available across iOS, Android, Google Assistant, web, and automobile integrations, ensuring listeners can access their favorite audio wherever they are.
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