Sirius XM Merger

Over a year and a half following the original merger announcement, Sirius and XM Satellite Radio completed their channel integration on November 12, 2008. XM users were introduced to 22 new channels, originally provided only to Sirius users, while Sirius introduced 11 new channels to their users. While the two companies remain independently ran, depending on a users choice of service, they now offer the same radio content and are both owned and operated by Sirius.

Critics across the political spectrum had criticized the proposed merger, saying that it could hinder commercial competition, grant fewer options to consumers and compromise the functionality of existing technology.MediaWeek: Senators Oppose XM, Sirius Merger (July 1, 2008) Sirius has insisted, however, that all existing devices will work with any new services offered, and that better choices in programming will be available for less money.Official Site: SIRIUSmerger.com

• February 19, 2007: XM Satellite Radio agrees to be purchased by Sirius Satellite Radio in a merger that would be worth over $4 billion.

• March 24, 2008: The U.S. Department of Justice approves the merger after concluding it would not significantly restrict competition and therefore would not harm consumers.Department of Justice: Statement on XM/Sirius Merger (March 24, 2008)

• July 24, 2008, Sirius and XM agree to pay a combined $19.7 million for FCC violations accrued by both companies.Chicago Tribune: Sirius, XM will pay fines to clear deal (July 25, 2008)

• July 25, 2008: The FCC, which had criticized the deal along with consumer groups and the terrestrial radio industry, approves the merger.

• November 12, 2008: Sirius and XM officially merge channels