FM Radio Smartphones You Can Buy

Yes, you can still buy smartphones with built-in FM radio receivers, but the availability depends on your region and carrier. Most modern Android phones from Samsung, Motorola, and other brands include a hardware FM chip, while iPhones do not have a built-in FM tuner. This article explains which phones have FM radio, how to use it, and what to consider before buying.

How FM Radio Works on Smartphones

FM radio on a smartphone uses a dedicated chip that receives analog radio signals. Unlike internet radio, it does not consume mobile data and works even without a cellular connection. The chip is often integrated into the phone’s main processor or a separate tuner chip. To function, the phone needs an antenna, which is typically the wired headphones that plug into the 3.5mm jack. Some phones use the USB-C port for audio, but the FM chip still requires an antenna, so you must plug in a wired headset (or a special adapter) to receive signals. Once connected, the built-in FM app scans for stations and plays them through the headphones or speakers.

Which Smartphones Have FM Radio

Most Android phones from major manufacturers include an FM receiver, but not all models have it enabled. Here are some general categories:

• Samsung Galaxy series: Most Galaxy phones (e.g., Galaxy S series, A series) have an FM tuner, but it may be disabled on some carrier-locked versions in certain countries.
• Motorola: Many Moto G and Moto E models come with FM radio enabled out of the box.
• LG: Several LG phones (e.g., LG G series, V series) include FM radio, but LG has exited the smartphone market.
• Sony Xperia: Many Xperia models have FM radio, especially those sold in Europe and Asia.
• Google Pixel: Pixel phones do not have FM radio hardware.
• iPhone: iPhones do not have an FM tuner.

Always check the phone’s specifications on the manufacturer’s official website or the box to confirm FM radio support. Carrier-locked phones may have the feature disabled even if the hardware exists.

Why Some Phones Lack FM Radio

Not all smartphones include FM radio due to design decisions and market trends. Some reasons:

• Space and cost: Adding an FM tuner chip increases cost and uses internal space.
• Carrier preferences: Carriers may disable FM to push data usage for streaming services.
• Trend towards streaming: Many users prefer internet radio, so manufacturers prioritize other features.
• iPhone design: Apple has never included FM hardware, focusing on streaming and Bluetooth audio.

However, FM radio remains useful in emergencies and areas with poor internet coverage.

How to Use FM Radio on Your Phone

If your phone has FM radio, follow these steps:

1. Plug in wired headphones (they act as the antenna).
2. Open the pre-installed FM Radio app (often called “FM Radio” or “Radio”). If not present, check your phone’s settings or app drawer.
3. Tap the scan button to find available stations.
4. Select a station to listen. You can adjust volume and switch to speaker if desired (though the antenna must remain connected).

Some phones require you to enable FM radio in the settings if it’s not visible. For example, on some Samsung phones, you may need to go to Settings > Connections > More connection settings > FM Radio.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: FM radio app not working or no sound.

• Ensure wired headphones are fully plugged in.
• Try a different pair of headphones.
• Check if the FM app is disabled in app settings.
• Restart your phone.

Problem: No FM radio app installed.

• Search for “FM Radio” in the Play Store, but note that third-party apps require the hardware to be present.
• Check if your phone model supports FM in the official specs.

Problem: FM radio not available in your region.

• Some regions have different hardware configurations. For example, US carrier models may have FM disabled while international versions work.

FM Radio vs. Internet Radio

FM radio and internet radio serve different purposes:

• FM radio: Free, no data usage, works without internet, but limited to local stations and requires an antenna.
• Internet radio: Access to thousands of stations worldwide, but uses data and requires a connection.

For emergency situations or areas with poor connectivity, FM radio is more reliable. For variety and convenience, internet radio is better.

Costs and Considerations

FM radio itself is free to use. The only cost is the phone itself. When buying a phone with FM radio, consider:

• Headphone jack: Some phones have removed the 3.5mm jack, which may complicate antenna connection (though USB-C adapters exist).
• Carrier availability: Check if your carrier allows FM radio on the specific model.
• Battery life: FM radio uses less battery than streaming, but still consumes some power.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use FM radio without headphones?
No, the headphones act as the antenna. Without them, the phone cannot receive FM signals. Some phones may have a built-in antenna, but this is rare.

Does FM radio work without internet?
Yes, FM radio uses analog signals and does not require an internet connection.

Why doesn’t my iPhone have FM radio?
Apple has never included an FM tuner in iPhones. They rely on internet radio and streaming services.

Can I install an FM radio app if my phone doesn’t have the hardware?
No, apps cannot add hardware. If your phone lacks an FM chip, the app will not work.

Is FM radio on phones still relevant?
Yes, especially for emergency alerts and areas with poor internet coverage. Many governments and organizations use FM for public announcements.

How do I know if my phone has FM radio?
Check the official specifications on the manufacturer’s website, look for “FM Radio” in the specs, or search for the FM app in your app drawer.

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