| Sirius Satellite Radio CEO Mel Karmazin told shareholders Wednesday that the company was pursuing discussions to integrate its satellite radio service with Apple's iPod as well as manufacturers of other MP3 players and portable devices: "'We've had discussions with everyone," the executive acknowledged, including makers of cell phones, digital music players and other devices. He said that he'd had dinner Monday night with Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs and other digital entertainment-related executives at a conference. 'Will there be MP3 players that include satellite radio? Sure. The technology's easy,' Karmazin added. The issue, he elaborated, is whether such an agreement would cannibalize existing Sirius business, and how much of its $12.95 monthly fee the company would have to split with a manufacturer." Karmazin said that the company's business was "just fine" without any such deal, but noted that the company recognizes the potential of a portable satellite radio player--much like the MyFi radio offered by rival XM Satellite Radio.
"The wearable market is a very small market in radio, and this goes back to the Sony Walkman," he indicated. "We have been focusing on the auto market and the home market. ... But we recognize there are customers who want it."
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