Nissan Named Exclusive Automotive Launch Partner for iTunes Radio Integration
Nissan secures a year-long exclusivity agreement with Apple to feature iTunes Radio in select models, including the Leaf and Versa Note, starting with the iOS 7 rollout.
Nissan has signed an agreement with Apple to become the exclusive automotive launch partner for iTunes Radio, following the streaming service’s debut with iOS 7 in September 2013. The deal gives Nissan a full year of exclusivity among carmakers, with iTunes Radio content and integration arriving first in the Nissan Leaf and Versa Note.
The partnership was announced as Apple rolled out iTunes Radio with the launch of the iPhone 5s and 5c. Nissan’s exclusive arrangement means no other car manufacturer will feature iTunes Radio integration in its vehicles during the first year of the service. The initial rollout focuses on the US market and will see the streaming platform offered both as in-car entertainment and as part of Nissan’s digital marketing campaigns.
Integration in Nissan models
Nissan confirmed that iTunes Radio would be accessible in the Nissan Leaf, the company’s all-electric hatchback, and the Nissan Versa Note, a compact hatchback. The integration allows drivers and passengers to stream music and curated content via Apple’s service using compatible Apple devices. Content will also be available on Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, iPod, PC and Mac, but Nissan’s in-car experience is positioned as a key differentiator for the brand during the exclusivity period.
The agreement also extends to Nissan’s marketing, with the company planning to use iAd on iTunes Radio to support campaigns for models such as the 2014 Nissan Rogue and promotional events like the Heisman Trophy Tour. Nissan said custom content and advertising would appear across Apple devices and platforms as part of its strategy to reach tech-focused buyers and reinforce its image as an innovator in automotive technology.
What the deal means for Nissan and Apple
For Nissan, the deal delivers a marketing edge by associating the brand with Apple’s ecosystem and the launch of a new digital service. It also gives Nissan early access to Apple’s in-car entertainment ambitions, ahead of rivals. For Apple, the partnership helps drive adoption of iTunes Radio and demonstrates the company’s intent to expand its presence in the automotive sector, a move that would later grow with Apple CarPlay.
Which Nissan models get iTunes Radio integration?
- Nissan Leaf (all-electric hatchback)
- Nissan Versa Note (compact hatchback)
Nissan’s iTunes Radio partnership is initially limited to these two models, but the company’s marketing campaign will also feature the 2014 Rogue. The exclusivity applies to the US market for the first year of iTunes Radio’s availability.
