Howard Stern renews with Sirius: From satellite to app radio?

Howard Stern on Thursday announced that he was going to sign up for another five years with Sirius XM and the move opens up a few app possibilities.

On his radio show, Stern said Sirius was the best place for him. The move is likely to allay fears that Sirius would lose a big chunk of subscribers---including me---if Stern left. Terms of the deal weren't disclosed, but are likely to wind up in a regulatory filing.

The more interesting wrinkle with the Stern deal is that his show will now be available on the Sirius XM app, which is available on various platforms such as the Apple's iPhone, Android devices and the BlackBerry. There was a lot of talk about Stern going to Apple, an idea that was total bunk. But the rough idea is the same: Apps and online distribution are increasingly important to content creators.

Due to contractual hang-ups, Stern wasn't on the Sirius XM app. That reality kept the Sirius XM app from being a must have. With Stern on the Sirius XM app downloads are likely to pick up.

The big picture here is that Sirius XM isn't necessarily about satellite radio anymore. Sirius XM is about content on any platform.

Stern staying with Sirius XM and appearing on mobile apps should accelerate the day where pricey satellites aren't the main distribution method for the company.

Related: Howard Stern May Be Headed to a Smartphone Near You