According to 9to5Mac, Apple [AAPL] is working on an FM radio App for the iPhone and iPod Touch, and apparently the FM radio application will be for current models of the iPhone and iPod Touch.
It looks like Apple will use the FM transmitter which is currently in the iPhone and iPod Touch, but isn’t used for FM radio at the moment.
Apple’s iPods and iPhones have been able to receive FM radio signals for some time now. The latest generation of iPhone and iPod touch can even broadcast FM signal, for instance to a car stereo. The ability of the iPhone and iPod touch to receive FM signals has been used solely in the implementation of the Nike+ ecosystem to this point.
Potential Features of the FM Radio App
The rumored FM radio app could bring a host of new features to the iPhone and iPod Touch. For instance, users might be able to tune into their favorite local radio stations directly from their devices without needing an internet connection. This could be particularly useful in areas with poor cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. Additionally, the app might include features such as station presets, the ability to pause and rewind live radio, and even integration with Apple Music for discovering new songs and artists.
Moreover, the FM radio app could potentially offer a more energy-efficient way to listen to music and news compared to streaming services, which consume more battery and data. This could be a significant advantage for users who are on the go and need to conserve their device’s battery life.
Why Apple Might Be Interested in FM Radio
Apple’s interest in developing an FM radio app could be driven by several factors. Firstly, it would add another layer of functionality to their devices, making them more versatile and appealing to a broader audience. Secondly, it could serve as a competitive edge against other smartphone manufacturers who may not offer built-in FM radio capabilities.
Another reason could be the increasing demand for emergency broadcast capabilities. FM radio can be a reliable source of information during natural disasters or other emergencies when internet services might be down. By enabling FM radio on iPhones and iPod Touches, Apple could provide a valuable service to its users in critical situations.
As usual, this is just a rumor at the moment, so I guess we will just have to wait and see what Apple has up their sleeve for the iPhone.
via Gadget Lab
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