Slacker Radio overhaul includes new partnerships with Nerdist, RoosterTeeth, & others

In a sea of streaming music competitors, Slacker Radio is aiming to distinguish itself by reimagining the familiar format of old-school radio programming.

Above: A screenshot of Slacker’s new radio station partnerships, featuring web video star Tyler Oakley

Image Credit: Slacker Radio

Slacker already offered DJs and select musicians the option to curate music based on a particular topic, subject, or interest with added commentary in between, as VentureBeat previously reported. But as of today Slacker is hoping to do the same with well-known media partners — such as Nerdist Industries, the studio behind Red vs. Blue Rooster Teeth, web video star Tyler Oakley, and others — that will get dedicated radio stations. Slacker thinks algorithm-based curation is severely lacking when it comes to providing a complete digital radio experience, and I can’t say I disagree. Having someone chime in between programming does create a relationship with the audience that might cause them to stick around longer than they normally would — sort of like how Adult Swim’s bumpers between commercials and TV shows makes it the first channel I turn to when I want something on in the background late at night.

But the move isn’t just for professionals, as Slacker wants to eventually open up the platform to all creators wishing to participate with an audience via radio. This could be mostly curated music, but could also include podcasts that have been translated to make sense of Slacker’s new platform.

In addition to the fresh programming partnerships, Slacker has redesigned its mobile apps and websites to make it easier for people to create and navigate through custom radio stations, discover new content, and otherwise enhance the overall experience. The website in particular now takes a Pinterest-like approach to displaying radio shows and new content, as shown in the screenshot at the top of the page. It’s far more inviting than the old version, enabling people to click things they’re curious about.

Slacker’s new design gives listeners greater control over every aspect of what’s playing. So even if you’re listening to a news or talk program, you’ll be able to skip segments you aren’t interested in. I haven’t had a chance to play with the redesigned version, but it seems very similar to the NPR One app that came out earlier this year.

Slacker’s update is available starting today via its website and iOS apps. The company said its planning to update its Android app and other devices in the near future. Slacker offers three tiers of service: a free ad-supported digital radio model, a $4 per month ad-free tier, and an ad-free on-demand tier for $10 monthly.