SAN ANTONIO and REDMOND, Wash., Aug. 31, 1999 — Today Clear Channel Communications Inc. (NYSE: CCU) and Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq
“MSFT”
) announced that Clear Channel has chosen Windows Media TM Technologies 4 to stream all Clear Channel’s radio stations via the Internet, reaching a potential weekly audience of over 44 million listeners.
“Microsoft® Windows Media Technologies 4 provides the clear path for future interactive wired and wireless means of streaming,”
said Jenny Sue Rhoades, senior vice president of Internet Operations, Clear Channel Communications.
“We are confident the strategic relationship with Microsoft will bring the highest-quality listening experience to our terrestrial listeners who join us online, as well as potential new listeners who have never had the chance to hear one of our local formats. The motivating force in forming this relationship with Microsoft hinges on the idea that we can enhance the experience for our listeners and our advertisers by adding rich media capability to our radio content.”
“As a media industry leader, Clear Channel has continually proven its ability to grow and innovate,”
said Will Poole, general manager, Streaming Media Division, Microsoft.
“Microsoft is excited that Windows Media will play a key role as Clear Channel extends its radio brands to the Internet. This is a strong example of how Windows Media Technologies 4 can help media companies succeed by delivering industry-leading audio quality in a cost-effective solution.”
“Microsoft Windows Media has many advantages looking forward to how interactive entertainment is delivered,”
said David Murray, director of Advanced Technologies, Clear Channel Communications.
“We believe that Windows Media will provide us with the most efficient operational environment and lowest costs as we move forward. It is obvious that localized content will have a new character coupled with the technologies Microsoft brings to the table.”
About Windows Media Technologies
Windows Media Technologies is the leading digital media platform, providing consumers, content providers, solution providers, software developers and corporations with unmatched audio and video quality. Windows Media Technologies 4, which includes Windows Media Player, Windows Media Services, Windows Media Tools and the Windows Media Audio SDK, is available for free download at http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/ (connect-time charges may apply). Over 40 million copies – more than one every second – of the free Windows Media Player have been downloaded to date.
WindowsMedia.com ( http://windowsmedia.com/ ), part of the MSN TM network of Internet services, is the fastest-growing major audio and video guide on the Internet. WindowsMedia.com provides access to localized audio and video content users worldwide, including over 600 radio stations and major music and video events from more than 1,000 content providers.
About Clear Channel Communications
Clear Channel Communications Inc. ( http://www.clearchannel.com/ ) is a global leader in the out-of-home advertising industry with radio and television stations and outdoor displays in 32 countries around the world. Including announced transactions, Clear Channel operates 511 radio and 19 television stations in the United States and has equity interest in over 240 radio stations internationally. Clear Channel also operates more that 425,000 outdoor advertising displays. Clear Channel’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol
“CCU.”
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use, each designed with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full power of personal computing every day.
Microsoft, Windows Media and MSN are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.
Other product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.
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