XM gets into weather

The ONIX400

(Credit: XM Satellite Radio)

XM Satellite Radio continues to branch out. It first went beyond its original remit of offering dozens of obscure radio stations with the introduction of XM NavTraffic, a service to drivers providing real-time information on congestion and traffic conditions. Now the company is getting into weather forecasting with its XM WX weather data service. The first standalone device to feature the new service will be the ONIX400, a joint collaboration between XM and Bushnell Outdoor Products that will let you listen to death metal tracks while checking the outlook for your weekend picnic.

The waterproof handheld device, which features a 3.5-inch color display, uses an embedded 64MB Micro SD card for data and map services, and users can check current XM playlists while checking the weather on a split screen view. According to XM, the ONIX 400 will deliver current and forecasted weather data, including detailed, real-time weather warnings.

Like XM radio and traffic, the WX weather service will be offered as a subscription service, although no details on pricing have been announced so far. Look out for the ONIX 400 to arrive sometime in the summer.

[andyhartman]

XM Weather Service

Actually, I understand that XM has had Aviation Weather service for some time now, possibly pre-dating the real-time traffic. I understand that Sirius is planning similar service.

[techmonkey]

XM Weather Not New - Just Expanded

XM has been providing weather services for some time now. In addition to the Aviation and Marine weather reports that XM has offered for a while, bundled with the city traffic reports for certain cities are [limited] weather reports.

As such, this is not a new service, just an expanded one. And a much appreciated and need service.

Instead of hearing the "current" weather at JFK (for example), subscribers will now be able to get more detailed weather announcements and forecasts. Weather its real-time or not is not known. Real-time for XM means more like within the last hour or so. This based on their "real-time" traffic updates which for the NYC area at least somewhat too delayed.

I think another great story within this one is the announcement of a new XM device...ONIX400. XM always seems to be one step ahead of Sirius when it comes to products and devices and this one is no different. Of course we will have to wait for a full review.

While little announcements like this is nice, I'm still waiting to hear more about XM (and to a lesser degree Sirius') plans for satellite video and the products that will support it.