XM's New XMX

[Nick]

SkyReport:With the merger debate still up in the air, both satellite radio companies have continued down a path toward differentiation. This week, XM unveiled plans to launch a new channel aimed at doing just that: Focusing on what makes it different from its competition.

Beginning Aug. 1, XM will launch XMX, a new channel dedicated to exclusive XM programming featuring the satcaster's original music shows all in one place. Some of the company's most popular shows, like Bob Dylan's Theme Time Radio, Ludacris' Open Mic, and Tom Petty's Buried Treasure will all be carried on the new XMX (channel 2).

XM said that while new episodes of its original music series will continue to air on their regular time slots and on normal home channels, XMX will be uniquely scheduled in a 'program of the day' type format. This, the company said, will provide subscribers with more opportunities to tune in anytime and hear episode premieres or catch up on episodes from previous weeks or seasons.

XM also said it has plans to launch additional original channels this summer to enhance its programming lineup. Also in August, the satcaster will launch Starbucks XM Cafe (channel 45) and exclusive sports channels for SEC college sports (channels 199-201), Big 12 college sports (channels 241 and 242), and
a news channel dedicated to the 2008 presidential election. www.SkyReport.com - used with permission

[reddice]

Its okay that they are merging XM Cafe and Starbucks channel. I don't listen to either but I think that the XMX channel is a waste. I would have rather them bring back a channel like Special X.

[Steve Mehs]

XM needs to do a channel realignment, the sports programming is all over the dial. MLB in the 170s and 180s, some NCAA in the 190s and 200s, The Virus is thrown in there, NHL in the 200s, Traffic, then more NCAA in the 240s.