Bell Media and iHeartMedia have announced a long-term extension of their exclusive partnership, continuing their collaboration to provide audio entertainment to audiences in Canada through iHeartRadio Canada. The renewed agreement builds on nearly ten years of joint work that has helped establish iHeartRadio Canada as a significant digital audio platform. The service now offers over 360 licensed Canadian radio stations in 170 markets, along with a large selection of podcasts, playlists, and on-demand content.
With the new agreement, Bell Media will continue to represent iHeartRadio’s podcast portfolio in Canada. This arrangement gives advertisers more opportunities to reach listeners across the country.
iHeartRadio Canada first launched in 2016 and has since expanded its reach through various digital platforms, including web access, mobile apps, and car dashboard integrations. The app is widely used by radio listeners throughout Canada.
Dave Daigle, Vice President of Local TV, Radio, and Bell Media Studios, said: “The creation of iHeartRadio Canada has been instrumental in evolving the digital audio landscape in Canada, greatly expanding the choice of incredible content available to listeners. The renewal of this successful partnership ensures iHeartRadio Canada continues to deliver exceptional content and innovative listening experiences to our audiences, further solidifying our position as a leader in the Canadian media industry.”
Michael Biondo, President of Business Development & Strategic Partnerships at iHeartMedia, stated: “This renewed agreement with Bell Media reflects our shared commitment to delivering the best in audio entertainment to Canadian listeners and advertisers. In the years to come, we’ll continue expanding iHeartRadio Canada with innovative features, exclusive content, and unique opportunities for brands to connect and engage with audiences across the country.”
The continued partnership will maintain access for Canadian listeners to a range of audio entertainment options. It also means ongoing support for iHeartRadio-branded events within Canada that bring live music and entertainment experiences to fans.
Starting today, the iHeartRadio Canada app introduces several new features designed for an improved listening experience. These include custom presets allowing users to save up to 15 favorite stations or playlists; a scan button for discovering new stations; a live radio dial similar to traditional car radios; trending rankers showing popular podcasts and playlists; and lyrics displayed for songs playing on live radio or artist stations.
The free app remains available across multiple platforms such as web browsers, smartphones (iOS/Android), Google Assistant devices, cars, and more.
Bell Media operates several major media properties in Canada including CTV television network; Crave streaming service; TSN sports network; RDS French-language sports channel; Astral out-of-home advertising network; Noovo French-language network; as well as original productions. The company is part of BCE Inc., which is listed on both the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). More information can be found at https://www.bellmedia.ca/.
