TuneIn extends reach via Bragi headphone partnership

TuneIn will be integrated into Bragi's Audio Apps Space under a new partnership, extending its reach to more than 20 million Bragi-enabled headphones.

The agreement brings TuneIn's streaming audio service to headphones and earbuds that use Bragi's software platform. Bragi works with consumer audio brands including Skullcandy and Bose, and its system lets users access audio through tap and voice commands.

TuneIn, owned by Stingray, said the arrangement will give listeners access to live radio, sports, news, music and podcasts through Bragi-supported devices. Its catalogue includes more than 100,000 radio stations, millions of podcasts and 100,000 audiobooks.

The partnership adds another distribution channel for TuneIn, which says it has more than 75 million listeners across 122 countries. The service is already integrated into more than 200 vehicles and devices, including smartphones, smart speakers and in-car systems.

For Bragi, the addition expands the range of services available through its Audio Apps Space. The Munich-founded company develops software for smart headphones and earbuds, positioning itself as the layer that connects audio brands with streaming and other digital services.

Rich Stern, Chief Executive Officer of TuneIn, said the company's strategy has focused on expanding access to its service across listening platforms.

"Our mission has always been to make TuneIn available wherever people want to listen," said Rich Stern, Chief Executive Officer of TuneIn.

He added: "Bragi is an innovative leader that shares our vision for delivering exceptional audio experiences. Together, we're making it easier for listeners to access live radio, sports, news, music and podcasts on Bragi-powered devices."

Device reach

Bragi said its software turns headphones and earbuds into devices that offer context-based audio access and controls. The company first became known for The Dash, which it described as the first true wireless smart earbuds, and now works with a range of hardware and service providers.

The integration means users of Bragi-enabled products will be able to access TuneIn's content through the interface built into those devices. The aim is to reduce the steps required to reach live audio and on-demand programming while using headphones rather than a phone screen.

Nikolaj Hviid, Chief Executive Officer of Bragi, said the company sees the partnership as a way to give both device makers and listeners broader access to established audio services.

"At Bragi, we've built the software layer that brings today's best services to audio products," said Nikolaj Hviid, Chief Executive Officer of Bragi.

He added: "Adding TuneIn to our platform gives our partners access to one of the world's leading live audio services and gives listeners an easier, more intuitive way to enjoy the news, sports, music and podcasts they care about."

Broader push

The agreement reflects a continued push by streaming audio companies to secure distribution across connected consumer devices beyond smartphones. Headphones and earbuds have become a more active software category as manufacturers look to differentiate products through built-in services, voice interaction and app layers.

For Stingray, TuneIn's owner, the deal adds to a portfolio spanning audio and video services distributed across connected televisions, mobile devices, cars, retail settings and smart speakers. The company also owns brands including Singing Machine, Stingray Karaoke and Qello Concerts.

TuneIn remains best known for live radio aggregation, though it has expanded into podcasts, audiobooks, news and sports. Its premium offering includes live NFL and college sports programming, along with commercial-free news from networks including CNN, Fox News Radio, MSNBC NOW, CNBC and Bloomberg.

Bragi's partner roster includes Bose, Skullcandy and Tozo, giving it access to a broad installed base in consumer audio. The new deal will make TuneIn available through a platform embedded in millions of headphones, extending its presence further into everyday listening hardware.