Since its introduction in the 1930s, FM radio has been a widely used medium for music, news, and entertainment. However, many are debating whether FM radio is still useful in the modern world with the advent of the internet and digital media. This article will examine the probable decrease of FM radio as well as the emergence of internet radio, the price of purchasing an FM radio station, and the expansion of the radio industry. Does FM radio still exist?
FM radio is still widely used, although during the past few years, its listenership has been progressively falling. 90% of Americans over 12 listened to AM/FM radio in 2019, down from 94% in 2014. As more individuals move to streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora, this trend is anticipated to continue. The availability of Bluetooth and other digital connections in many more recent vehicles also makes it simpler for drivers to listen to their own music rather than conventional radio stations. Is FM radio superior to the internet?
Compared to FM radio, Internet radio has a number of benefits. First off, it offers a greater selection of musical genres and radio stations, including some from outside that FM radio may not carry. Second, unlike traditional radio, it enables listeners to skip commercials and songs they don’t like. Finally, internet radio is more available and practical for listeners because it can be listened from any location with an internet connection.
The price to purchase an FM radio station varies according to a number of variables, such as the market’s size, the station’s audience, and the station’s profitability. Larger stations in major markets can cost millions of dollars, while smaller stations in smaller markets might cost as low as $50,000. Running a radio station also involves recurring expenses like licensing fees, equipment maintenance, and employee compensation. How do you purchase a radio station?
Finding a station that is for sale, negotiating a price, securing finance, and receiving regulatory approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are all steps in the process of purchasing a radio station. The FCC controls radio station ownership and mandates that stations be locally owned and run. The FCC also demands that prospective buyers show they have the financial resources and technical know-how to operate a radio station. Is the radio sector expanding?
FM radio’s decrease Nevertheless, the radio sector as a whole is still expanding. This is mostly a result of the growth of digital radio, which includes streaming services like internet radio and satellite radio. The global radio sector is anticipated to expand between 2021 and 2026 at a compound annual rate of 1.8%, according to a Deloitte analysis. The popularity of digital radio is rising, yet there is still a desire for news, sports, and entertainment content.
In conclusion, the radio business as a whole is still expanding even though FM radio may be losing listeners. It seems obvious that radio will continue to be a significant medium for many years to come given the growth of digital radio and the rising need for news and entertainment programming. There is no denying that radio has a bright future, whether you favor online radio or conventional FM radio.