Canadians will be able to legally buy subscription satellite radio after the Canadian Government approved license applications for three subscription radio proposals, one each from Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio, and a third from Canadian broadcaster, CHUM.

Industry analysts in Canada say the rulings are significant for digital radio and could mark the death knell for traditional terrestrial radio. The decision might be appealed.

Canada’s broadcasting regulator says the decision meets the objectives of Canada’s Broadcasting Act, and balances the needs of consumers, the radio industry and the music industry.