NAB, RAB Applauds Apple For Adding FM to Nano

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Apple said Wednesday that its next generation iPod nano will feature FM radio capability, including iTunes tagging -- a turnaround for the company which had previously declined to add a built-in FM tuner. The new nano model features a larger screen, a video recorder and an FM tuner with a live pause function.

In a statement, NAB Executive VP Dennis Wharton said, "Today's announcement validates a longstanding desire by NAB and broadcasters across America to ensure that our free and local content is available on every conceivable mobile device and technology."

He continued, "On behalf of radio broadcasters across the country, NAB applauds Apple for recognizing the value of free, local radio. It gives America's 235 million weekly radio listeners yet another platform to enjoy our free service and brings a valuable feature to one of the world's preeminent entertainment products."

RAB President/CEO Jeff Haley said, "For the radio industry this announcement, following the Zune HD launch by Microsoft [due September 15], confirms the dominant listening position that local broadcast radio holds in the U.S. It is clear that radio fits seamlessly into the modern media lifestyle. We are an important part of media mix for today's time-starved and mobile consumer and will remain relevant and adaptive as a new technology only improves our product."