• by Erik Sass  @eriksass1, May 28, 2010

Accommodating the demands of some listeners, the most recent edition of Clear Channel's IHeartRadio mobile streaming Web app is offering ad-free content on a subscription model. Subscribers can listen to commercial-free talk radio content from well-known hosts, including Sean Hannity, Dr. Laura, Jim Rome and Bob & Tom. The subscription service offers streaming programs and downloadable podcasts, and also gives subscribers access to archived content on demand.

As before, listeners can also access ad-supported audio streams from more than 750 local Clear Channel stations and celebrity channels, in addition to videos and on-demand traffic reports. Version 2.3 of the IHeartRadio mobile app is currently available for iPhone, iPod touch, and BlackBerry smartphones.

The company says a version for Android is coming soon. IHeartRadio recently passed 7 million unique downloads, and usage continues to increase at a healthy clip, according to Clear Channel.

Clear Channel also said that streaming audio now accounts for 15% of all terrestrial (as opposed to satellite) radio listening.

Like other big radio groups, Clear Channel is counting on mobile advertising and subscription revenues to drive future growth. However, digital ad revenues remain a relatively small part of the total business, according to the Radio Advertising Bureau.

In the first-quarter, digital ads contributed just $123 million or just 3.3% of total revenues of about $3.7 billion. For comparison, separate estimates have subscription revenues at $400-$500 million, indicating that these are still a more lucrative option for online radio sales.