Digital Audio Ratings currently collects data on more than 2,500 station streams across all 48 personal people meter (PPM) markets. Initially, it will report the listening of digital streams of AM/FM radio stations and e-radio stations in these 48 markets. Measurement for custom-curated and on-demand audio, including podcasts, is currently being developed. 

The new solution is a component of Nielsen’s Total Audience, an initiative that provides comparable metrics across all linear and digital platforms. 

"With the way people consume content in a continual state of change, it’s critical to capture all of the platforms where people are listening to audio, whether on the radio, computers or smartphones," said Brad Kelly, managing director, Nielsen Audio.

"To achieve Total Audience for audio, we must provide a comprehensive view of listening behaviour across all platforms and what better way to start than with radio. Nielsen Digital Audio Ratings allows broadcasters, advertisers and marketers to better understand the dynamics of a station’s over-the-air and online audiences."