On September 26, Sirius Satellite Radio announced the availability of the $350 Stiletto 100, "the company's first live portable radio, featuring WIFI, Yahoo music purchasing software, and the ability to save music subscribers love for playback later."
The 4.7" by 2" by 1" Stiletto can store up to 100 hours of "live Sirius Satellite Radio programming," albeit in segments of programming lasting no longer than six hours. Users can also save up to 10 hours of favorite songs they designate with the "love" button. The Stiletto 100 can connect to Sirius' Internet radio services via WiFi. It also sports a buffer that allows users to pause, rewind, and play 60 minutes of live radio.
What was that about FCC approval? After accepting pre-orders for the Stiletto 100, Sirius requested that retailers stop accepting pre-release orders. According to www.engadget.com, the cause was a delayed FCC approval, which came through with a grant of equipment authorization on September 19. That doesn't mean that Sirius is immune from RIAA lawsuits, however. After all, XM's Inno had FCC approval, too, and the RIAA slapped it with multiple suits. Only time will tell if the Stiletto is going to get the record-label shaft, but the smart money's always on "sue" when the litigious industry group is involved.
