Events in the radio industry prove that it is still thriving, against common misconceptions. According to Nielsen’s Q3 2023 Total Audience Report, radio is still the favorite media for 84% of Americans aged 18 and above. Given that radios have millions of listeners every day, radio is still very significant in today’s information and entertainment world. Even so, how is it able to last so long? Let us look at the reasons radio continues to play a key role today. Have a listen to the radio.
A History of Radio Over the Course of a Century
For radio to stay relevant, it has to adapt all the time. With the discovery of electromagnetic waves by Heinrich Hertz around the year 1890, the way for wireless communication was clear. He was known for his important role in developing radio transmission.
Yes, radio is still listened to—and in 2025, it is a relevant source of media that has developed a lot.
Key points about this topic are:
A huge number continue to listen: Billions of people continue to tune into radio every week worldwide. In several countries, it’s still one of the leading places for people to find news, music and talk shows.
80% or more of adults in the U.S. listen to radio regularly, whether it is traditional, satellite or online.
Younger people are increasingly choosing digital radio, as both Internet radio, speech from smart speakers and podcasts have become popular.
People find so much to enjoy when they listen.
Accessibility
Radio can be listened to on the radio itself, in your car, through mobile apps, on smart speakers, on websites and even online. Because it only needs small bandwidth and basic subscriptions, anyone can use it.
Live and locally uploaded content
People enjoy hearing about live news, traffic, local happenings and regional music. It’s radio, more than any other medium online, that meets this hyperlocal need better.
Music Discovery
A lot of people still look to DJs or playlists to find music, mainly in unique or cultural styles.
Passive Listening
While driving, working or relaxing, radio can be present without needing someone to pay close attention or engage all the time, as required with video or social media.
The Ways Radio Is Transforming:
Radio is now available on apps such as TuneIn, iHeartRadio and Radio Garden.
Shows are available for on-demand replays, so fans can experience radio style again through podcasting.
Integrated with Alexa, Google Assistant and vehicles, radio is a convenient part of many people’s daily lives.
With the rise of digital radio, Internet is now a major force.
Although radio is still familiar on drives and in public places, internet radio is gaining popularity fast. Now, users can enjoy live radio through TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Radio Garden or thousands of station websites while traveling the world. Thanks to technology today, stations like a jazz studio in Paris, a community station in Nairobi and a K-pop blend in Seoul can all be reached by a simple click on your device.
Radio has stayed viable in large part because of smart speakers and connected devices. All you have to say is “Alexa, play BBC Radio 1” or “Hey Google, play the news on a local radio station” to get your favorite station.
Are podcasts and radio really rivals or could they be working together?
Many believe that podcasts have taken over radio—in fact, they work together. Podcasts are created ahead of time and are about particular topics, whereas radio brings you news, sports and shows as it happens. Many radio stations today create podcasts from their regular shows, so audiences can enjoy programs in any way they want.
Adaptations Happening in the Radio Industry
To be up-to-date, radio stations are using:
RADIO TV HIT has show videos produced live by professional artists.
Using social media for engaging fans and sharing content.
Let AI help you choose music and create unique playlists for you.
They have shows broadcasted live, plus content you can download and keep.
Networks that come up with new ideas and still hold on to their popularity among locals are gathering larger followings.
✅ Conclusion:
Listening to the radio is still popular, but it’s being done in different ways. Some people in rural areas and vehicles keep tuning into AM/FM, while others in urban and youth groups prefer online radio, podcasts and streaming with their phones. Although it now takes digital forms, radio is not gone and thriving.
