A few years ago, smartphones came with built-in FM Radio. However, in recent years, the trend has died down and there’s been a significant decline in new phones shipping with FM Radio. Today, it is mostly found in feature phones and some low-end devices. Now, the Indian government has issued an advisory to smartphone makers in the country to ensure that FM Radio is enabled and available on devices. 

FM Radio must on all smartphones in India

Radio broadcasting is one of the oldest, most effective, and reliable ways of communication. It is used to send warnings and alerts to the public in case of emergencies and disasters. They act as an important communication link between local authorities and the public. Additionally, FM Radio also offers access to information and entertainment. 

The move to make FM Radio accessible on smartphones is to bridge the digital divide and offering radio services in rural and remote areas where people cannot offer standalone radio sets. This will make services available to all citizens in tough times. 

The Minister of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) stated that the FM Radio feature should not be disabled if it is built-into smartphones. Additionally, if devices don’t have it, then it should be included. Even though most smartphone chipsets support FM Radio, it is disabled by OEMs. Cupertino-based tech giant Apple does not provide FM Radio on its iPhones. 

The government has issued an advisory to the Indian Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) and Manufacturers’ Association for Information Technology (MAID) to ensure that FM Radio is easily accessible on smartphones. 

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