A deal between
AOL and
CBS will lead to
the creation of a huge combined internet radio business.
The companies said in a joint announcement that CBS will take over the
operation of AOL's radio business to form a combined network of at least 350
stations.
AOL's 200 radio stations will operate under the
CBS
Radio brand and will use its new parent company's advertising systems,
including TargetSpot.
AOL will not, however, completely abandon its radio operations. The company
vowed to continue working with CBS to develop a new media player application,
and to increase support for Mac OS systems.
"This partnership with CBS Radio reconfirms our commitment to the expanding
online radio audience," said AOL executive vice president Kevin Conroy.
The move is the latest attempt by AOL to reform itself from an ISP into a web
content giant.
The firm ended its support of the
Netscape browser in
January, just months after shedding
roughly a fifth
of its workforce.
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