A lot of smartphones have FM chips – the problem is that most of them lie dormant. They’re there, but they aren’t turned on. FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler recently observed that the issue of smartphone FM chips is being taken care of by the marketplace. Emmis exec and NextRadio proponent Jeff Smulyan didn’t disagree, but…
The fact that consumers who do use the app love it is helping to fuel interest in Washington.
When RBR+TVBR asked about Chairman Wheeler’s Smulyan said, “We’re encouraged by what we see, but some jawboning from Wheeler might be appropriate.”
In general, NextRadio is having success getting consumers to being the matter up with carriers, Congress and the FCC. Emails are going from satisfied customers to manufacturers, regulators and legislators alike.
And according to Smulyan, FM on Cell is gaining traction in Congress. He said that the Senate and the House are both focused on FM on Cell, and added that he has personally had conversations with members of the Senate who are working on it.
In general, the more people who become aware of FM on cell, the better it is for the industry.
“In India, 95% of all radio listening is on a smartphone.” The model is there, the platform will work, and it offers enormous opportunity for radio.
