Digital satellite systems for television encode their signal to restrict anybody from tapping into the signal. Many digital satellite providers now bundle DVR systems with their decoder box. Sirius announced in December 2005 a multi-year deal with the NBA, which makes the satellite radio company the broadcaster of more live NBA games than any other radio outlet.

On October 6, 2004 Sirius announced that it signed a five-year, $500-million agreement with shock jock Howard Stern to move his radio show to Sirius starting on January 9, 2006. In November, 2004, a partnership between Sirius, Standard Broadcasting and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation filed an application with the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission to introduce Sirius in Canada. XM Satellite Radio has 2 satellites in space that beam down over one hundred channels of content.

DirecTV now gives listeners as part of its service the music channels of XM, but not the news or traffic channels. Most XM Radio music channels are unique and innovative XM Originals, which include totally new programming. All of XM Radio's music channels are 100% commercial free.

XM offers a huge variety of stations you'll never hear on commercial radio. Satellite radio, also called digital radio, offers uninterrupted, near CD-quality music beamed to your radio from space. Satellite radio broadcasters promise crystal-clear music transmitted from thousands of miles into space.

Satellite radio is an idea over a decade in the making. Portable radios let you get the satellite signal just about everywhere. Despite crystal clear sound, crackle free delivery and nationwide coverage, American radio listeners have not been quick to take up many Satellite Radio offerings. Satellite dishes must have a clear line of sight to the satellite itself for best reception.