FM Radio in Smartphones: A Complete Buying Guide
FM Radio in smartphones allows users to listen to local radio stations without needing an internet connection. It uses the phone’s built-in radio chip and usually requires headphones to act as an antenna. FM Radio is useful for news, music, talk shows, and emergency broadcasts, offering entertainment and information even in offline scenarios.
How FM Radio Works in Phones
FM Radio in smartphones relies on a dedicated chip that can tune into local FM frequencies. The chip picks up radio signals and plays them through the device, usually requiring a connected pair of wired headphones to function as an antenna. This allows users to access live radio without consuming mobile data or needing Wi-Fi access, making it ideal for remote areas.
Benefits of Having FM Radio
FM Radio provides free access to local content, including music, news, weather updates, and emergency information. It’s especially valuable in situations where internet access is unavailable or unreliable. FM radio can also extend battery life compared to streaming, as it doesn’t require data processing or constant connectivity.
Why FM Radio Is Disappearing
Many smartphone manufacturers have phased out FM Radio support in favor of online streaming and podcast platforms. This is partly due to changing consumer habits and the push for wireless audio, which eliminates the headphone jack that acts as an antenna. However, some budget and mid-range models still include FM Radio, especially in regions where it remains popular.
Checking for FM Radio Support
To check if a phone has FM Radio, review the manufacturer’s specifications or look for a pre-installed radio app. Some phones may have the chip but it’s disabled by default or requires third-party apps to access. Keep in mind that FM functionality typically requires a wired headset, even if the phone supports Bluetooth audio playback.
Alternatives to Traditional FM Radio
If a phone doesn’t support FM Radio, users can still stream radio stations through apps like TuneIn, iHeartRadio, or local broadcaster apps. These services provide access to global content but require mobile data or Wi-Fi. For those in areas with limited connectivity, having native FM support remains a valuable and practical feature.