But what happens when the network goes dark or gets so overwhelmed from everyone trying to access information that you can't get through? That's too often the norm in areas hit hardest by things like hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, or even shootings. Sure it's great that you can use your phone to get alerts via text, listen to streaming music from services like Spotify and Google Music, and access the internet from your pocket. NextRadio's app lets you listen to FM radio on your phone. A portable radio that fits in my pocket is so '80s. All you need is an app like NextRadio, which lets you tune into the signal, and something to act as an antenna, such as headphones or nonwireless speakers. You can easily turn your phone into an FM radio if it has an embedded chipset and the proper circuitry to connect that chip to an FM antenna. I've never heard of being able to get radio through my phone. So to help Ask Maggie readers understand what this technology is and how it works, I've put together this FAQ. Apple responded with a half-hearted wish-we-could-but-we-can't response. It's why Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai last month singled out Apple, the last big phone maker that hasn't activated its FM chips, to "flip the switch" and turn on FM radios embedded in iPhones. That's also put a spotlight on the strengths of good ol' broadcast radio for efficiently disseminating information in an emergency. Devastating hurricanes and wildfires that have affected millions of Americans have shown us the vulnerabilities of mobile phone infrastructure, as well as the vital importance communications systems play in times of disaster. Manufacturers like Samsung, LG, HTC and Motorola have activated FM radio on their phones.įM radio access is more than just a convenience or a fun perk. Major US carriers now allow FM chips to be turned on. Public safety benefits and the fact that broadcast radio probably would have little impact on people's use of data are likely the reasons. In the last two years, wireless operators and phone makers have warmed up to the idea of FM radio access. An activated FM radio could give consumers a free alternative. But until a few years ago, device manufacturers disabled the function - often at the urging of wireless carriers that wanted customers to stream music and podcasts, and consume more data. Most smartphones include integrated chipsets that offer a variety of wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and FM radio. You can get FM radio in your car, so how come you can't get it on your phone? Well, here's a news flash: You probably can.
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