DUBAI // Listeners will be able to interact with their favourite stations after updates to mobile applications from the Arabian Radio Network.
Launched on Thursday, the updated apps for all nine of ARN’s stations, including Virgin Radio 104.4 and Dubai Eye 103.8, enable users to pause and rewind digital radio and send free text messages to the studio of their choice.
They will be able to pause for up to five minutes and rewind to anywhere from the moment they began listening.
Social-media integration also allows the public to send pictures directly through the app to be picked up by the presenters.
Another key feature is the ability to rate the songs being played from one to five stars, leading to a better understanding of listeners’ music preferences.
It is hoped the move will encourage a better relationship between the stations and their listeners, who are now increasingly using internet-enabled phones.
“It is a massive step forward,” said Steve Smith, chief operating officer for ARN Dubai. “Since 2009 we have had apps for all our brands, but this is about getting interactive.
“Being able to rate the songs helps us from a music scheduling perspective to make sure that we are playing the music that the audience out there is really liking.”
Mr Smith said this was the fourth phase of the network’s app development, with phase five scheduled to begin this year.
“We have been working on this for two years now and this new phase has really seen an intense focus from our development teams,” he said.
“At the end of the day we have to have great content and great presenters who know the listeners almost like friends. This interactivity means we can become a bigger part of their lives. We can get closer to our listeners.”
Depending on the make and model of a phone, an app update or new download will be required to receive the new functions.
All apps are available free of charge on Android, Apple, BlackBerry and Windows platforms.
ARN’s stations have been broadcasting online since 2004.
Apps are also available for the Abu Dhabi Media network of stations, which include Abu Dhabi Classic FM, Radio Mirchi and Emarat FM.
ksinclair@thenational.ae
