Native Voice and iHeartMedia Partner for Voice Access to Audio Content

Native Voice, providers of an on-demand voice assistant library, has partnereds with iHeartMedia to offer direct access its library of live and on-demand music, radio, and podcast content via voice.

Early next year, anyone with a Skull-iQ enabled Skullcandy device (Grind, Grind Fuel, Push Active) can simply say "Hey iHeart" for immediate, hands-free access to iHeartRadio's content without having to download the iHeart app.

"We are on a mission to free everyone to do more with direct and seamless access to the most delightful and valuable voice experiences, and our partnership with iHeartMedia is another example of how Native Voice is fulfilling that mission," said John Goscha, CEO of Native Voice, in a statement. "The time is right for voice, and we're excited to be partnering with category-leading brands that want to offer fast and easy access to their content and connect directly with their customers where they are."
"We are thrilled to partner with iHeartMedia to launch a branded voice experience where users will be able to ask for an artist, genre, radio station and location, or podcasts, without having to touch their phones," said Katie McMahon, president and chief operating officer of Native Voice, in a statement. "It's an exciting time for voice recognition, where end users get exactly what they're looking for while saving time and reducing friction. And most importantly, users don't have to pull out their phones to touch, type, or swipe, minimizing the time-suck that's so common with mobile phones."
"As the number one audio company in the United States, iHeartMedia is excited to partner with Native Voice to provide easy access to our unparalleled stable of live and on-demand content using voice," said John Vermeer, executive vice president of digital distribution and platform partnerships at iHeartMedia, in a statement. "Whether it be accessing live and local radio stations or the most listened-to library of podcasts, offering our users an exceptional experience is our top priority. Native Voice is a pioneer in this space, delivering truly hands-free listening, and we can't wait to offer yet another way to meet listeners where they are with the services they expect."