Why is XM increasing the basic monthly subscription rate?
Since its launch in fall 2001 XM has dramatically expanded its channel line-up from 100 channels to 150 channels. Under the new rate, XM will expand its basic package further by including two premium services for no additional charge: the Internet service XM Radio Online (previously a $3.99-a-month charge) and the premium channel High Voltage featuring Opie & Anthony (previously a $1.99-a-month charge). Over the past year alone, XM has made all of its music channels commercial-free; announced an agreement with Major League Baseball to provide play-by-play coverage for every team, all season long, with 16 dedicated channels; added 9 college sports channels for more than 30 ACC, PAC-10, and Big Ten schools; added traffic and weather channels for 21 major cities; and added top talk personalities, like Bob Edwards, Tony Kornheiser, G Gordon Liddy, and Dr. Laura. XM has also created exclusive music series, like Artist Confidential and Then…Again…Live, and added all-new music channels, i
