Emmis Interactive and Broadcast Electronics Launch Next Generation iTunes Tagging Solution to Radio Industry

CHICAGO, June 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Emmis Interactive Inc., the software and consulting company that empowers the reinvention of local media, and Broadcast Electronics (BE) today announced a partnership to offer a next generation iTunes song tagging solution for the radio industry.

The partnership leverages BE's data management studio system with Emmis Interactive's new proprietary tag management system, TagStation™.

TagStation™ is a web-based application that empowers broadcasters with an easy-to-use system to manage their iTunes tagging for accurate song matching.  It easily integrates with Broadcast Electronics TRE on-air software connectivity and builds on Emmis Interactive's world-class suite of digital products which include BaseStation® and iTunes Storefront.

Utilizing the companies' joint tagging solution will enable listeners to tag songs played over-the-air by FM RDS and HD Radio receivers.

"TagStation will be central to the monetization of iTunes tagging because it provides the song tracking and reporting that is necessary for stations to receive payment by iTunes," said Rey Mena, Co-President of Emmis Interactive. "We are thrilled to be able to build upon our iTunes relationship and work alongside BE to provide the industry with the premiere iTunes tagging solution."

"This is a key partnership for us and for the industry. We expect it will result in broader adoption and market penetration of iTunes tagging because we're essentially integrating all the tools and services broadcasters need to make revenue back from the songs that their listeners tag and purchase through iTunes," said Ray Miklius, BE Vice President of Studio Systems.

"What I like about this solution is that it is affordable, easy to use and works with any on-air playout system," said Paul Brenner, Emmis Communications SVP/CTO and President of the Broadcaster Traffic Consortium. "My exposure to radio manufacturers' future designs clearly indicate the need for broadcasters to fully embrace song tagging and similar technologies to enhance the listener's experience."

About Emmis Interactive (www.emmisinteractive.com)

Emmis Interactive, Inc., an award-winning global software and consulting company, provides local broadcasters and publishers with profitable, sustainable interactive businesses. Combining years of broadcast and publishing experience with cutting-edge technology and unparalleled service, Emmis Interactive empowers local media companies with a comprehensive digital strategy to maximize the value of their media brands. Services include interactive strategy for executive management, interactive sales training, content consulting, a proprietary engagement management platform and hosting services, custom web-site design and interactive product development.

Emmis Interactive Inc. is an Emmis Communications Company.  For more information about Emmis Interactive, visit emmisinteractive.com.

About Broadcast Electronics (www.bdcast.com)

Broadcast Electronics (BE) is the premier provider of mission-critical solutions for over-the-air and Internet radio. BE products encompass program generation, audio and data management, inter-facility transport, and analog and digital transmission. For five decades, BE pioneering developments have set industry standards for innovation and reliability, while providing broadcasters with new options for operational productivity and income generation. BE is headquartered in Quincy, Illinois, and is represented worldwide by a network of local representatives.

SOURCE Emmis Interactive, Inc.