iTunes Tagging lets users tag HD Radio songs to buy

by Peter Cohen, Playlist Magazine

Users of HD Radio devices coming from JBL and Polk Audio will soon be able to “tag” songs they’re hearing on the radio for later purchase using iTunes, according to a recent announcement by iBiquity Digital.

iBiquity developed HD Radio, which pairs AM and FM radio signals with a digital signal. The technology provides what iBiquity describes ad CD-quality sound, and can also let radio operators provide multiple channels of programming over a single frequency, like traffic updates and text information. HD Radio is being used or tested in countries throughout South America, Europe, and the Pacific Rim, as well as Canada and the United States.

Polk Audio and JBL have both introduced devices that feature a “Tag” button. When you hear a song you like, you simply press the button. The devices both feature iPod dock connectors. When your iPod is docked, the devices transfer information about the tagged songs from its memory to the iPod — when the iPod is connected to your Mac, it will transfer that information to a new Tagged playlist in itunes — you can then preview, buy and download the song.

Polk’s first supported device will be the recently-announced I-Sonic Entertainment System 2, which will hit retail stores — including Apple Stores — in October, for $499. JBL has announced the iHD, which will offer similar capabilities — its Web site had not been updated with information about the iHD as Playlist posted this article.