Swell Radio was a mobile radio streaming application that learned user listening preferences based on listening behavior, community filtering, and a proprietary algorithm. Originally designed for use while commuting to and from work, the service focused on delivering spoken-word audio content to users.[2] Major streaming partners included ABC News Radio, NPR, PRI, and TED

Swell
Developer(s)Concept.io
Initial releaseJune 27, 2013 (2013-06-27)
Operating systemiOS 6 or later;[1]
TypeStreaming radio
Websiteswell.am

According to the company website, the app was available on iOS devices worldwide but content was customized to the United States and Canada. The application was “ad-free” and the company was not monetizing.

In July 2014, Apple acquired the technology behind the Swell app for $30 million, discontinuing the app and folding its backbone and technology into Apple Podcasts.[3]

History edit

Concept.io, creator of Swell Radio, raised $5.4 million in Series A Funding led by venture capital firm Draper Fisher Jurvetson.[4] The application originally launched the application on the iOS platform in Canada in early 2013 and officially launched in the United States on June 27, 2013.[5]

References edit

  1. ^ "Swell Radio for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad on the iTunes App Store". Apple App Store. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  2. ^ Ha, Anthony (27 June 2013). "Swell Launches A Personalized App for News Radio Listening". TechCrunch. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  3. ^ Gannes, Liz (29 July 2014). "Apple buffs up radio service with string of acquisitions". CNN Money. Retrieved 29 July 2014.
  4. ^ Ha, Anthony (18 July 2013). "Personalized News Radio App Swell Raises $5.4M". TechCrunch. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  5. ^ Kern, Eliza. "Swell launches a Pandora for podcasts to help you decide where to tune in". Gigaom. Archived from the original on 31 January 2014. Retrieved 27 December 2013.

Further reading edit