The continent of North America comprising of the United States, Canada and Mexico has two providers of satellite radio services. They are XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. In the continents of Europe, Asia and Africa, the sole provider is WorldSpace. These providers offer hundreds of channels that cover varied areas of interest such as music, entertainment, sports, news, weather and traffic among others. Since this industry is not regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), many adult-oriented programs are also broadcast.

In the United States, both the providers have different broadcast systems, transmitting at different frequencies and necessitating different types of equipment. As such, if a subscriber wishes to switch providers, it will be necessary for him to procure new equipment. XM Satellite Radio is able to provide its services to all corners of the United States with the help of two orbiting satellites whereas Sirius Satellite Radio operates with the help of three satellites which are moving in an elliptical orbit. Both the providers have standby satellites in case of any malfunctioning of the main satellites.

Satellite radio receivers can be fitted in vehicles also, and both the above providers are joining hands with the main vehicle manufacturers and their dealers to equip the new vehicles with these receivers. The number of vehicles fitted with satellite radio receivers has grown manifold over the past few years, proving the popularity of satellite radios. Home stereo systems and portable radio receivers with built-in antennas are also adopting the satellite radio system. An added advantage of this system is that the names of the artists and the songs are also displayed for the convenience of the consumer.

The providers of the satellite radio systems levy a subscription fee of about $10 to $15 every month for each receiver from each consumer in the United States. Consumers do not like the subscription system, but the advantages of satellite radios in respect of some commercial free broadcast and excellent sound quality more than make up for the small fee.

The popularity of satellite radio has been going up with each passing day, and its future is extremely rosy. Just like the cable television boom, it won’t be long before each home and vehicle will have a satellite radio, especially because of the excellent audio quality and the limitless content of the programs.

**Note that the specifics cited about Satellite Radio services are true to the best of our knowledge as of the writing of this article and may have since been changed by the satellite radio company. If you choose to purchase service through Sirius radio or any other satellite radio provider, please read all of the terms and conditions provided by the company at the time of your purchase very carefully.