AOL TWEAKS "RADIO" OFFERING

Yes, this is a story about Internet "radio." But it's a story about Internet radio on America Online, which automatically makes it interesting.

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No, really—AOL claims well over 30 million users, which means its reach as a "netcaster" is beyond significant

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We heard there was a big "buzz" about this, but this is ridiculous!

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Anyway, AOL announced today an expansion of its Radio@AOL streaming music service, which technically isn't Internet radio at all, but online radio on America Online, since it's only available to subscribers who have access to AOL's closed network. But since that's really hard to say, we won't split hairs. AOL debuted the service last Fall with the release of AOL version 7.0.

Version 1.1 of Radio@AOL adds one new feature and a bunch of new programming to aid in the distraction of office workers nationwide, which, while impacting productivity somewhat, will keep people from obsessing about things like Enron and those damn cheating accountants and what's going on in Afghanistan and who can we trust who can we trust who can we trust

But we digress.

Radio@AOL's new feature is called "customizable presets," which allows users to store their favorite "stations" and have them available at the click of a button—kind of like the "favorites" list on your Web browser. Users are allowed up to five presets.

The new programming includes an Associated Press news channel, a WB television network channel, an online version of The New York Times' WQXR classical music station and a Radio Woodstock channel.

AOL will also feature seasonal and celebrity programming, including celebrity DJs such as Alanis Morissette, Ja Rule and Quincy Jones, a Grammy Station (featuring music by Grammy nominees) and Valentine's Day and Mardi Gras channels. A channel dedicated to Black History Month is also available.

"By continuing to build Radio@AOL's programming mix with leading media and content partners, we're able to provide millions of members with the easiest way to reach more familiar content in one convenient place," said AOL Music Senior Vice President and General Manager Kevin Conroy. "Radio@AOL gives members another reason to make the Internet a primary medium for entertainment and information." And, of course, it gives AOL another dandy reason to charge them up the wazoo for the privilege. Glad somebody can.