Have you heard of the app? NextRadioThis app lets you listen to FM radio directly on your phone, using the device's internal radio chip—no internet connection required. You can download it below.
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THE NextRadio It's perfect for those who want to listen to live radio without using mobile data. It works like a traditional radio, connecting to local stations via the device's FM chip. If there's an internet connection, the app also displays additional information such as song cover art, station name, and program details—providing a richer experience.
Usability and Interface
The app is quite intuitive, with a side menu where you can choose between different modes: FM Only Mode (no internet) or Enhanced Mode (with extra information, using data). To use offline, simply plug in headphones—which act as an antenna—open the app, activate "tuner-only mode" in the settings, and browse nearby stations.
Exclusive Features
In addition to capturing FM radio without internet, NextRadio delivers interactive content when there is an internet connection available: cover art, song title, history of played tracks, the possibility to purchase the song or share it on social media.
Another interesting point is the data and battery savings. FM mode uses less than 20% of the data that would be consumed by radio streaming, extending your phone's battery life.
Strengths and Differentiators
- Listened to offline: ideal for places without coverage or to save data.
- Visual integration: in online mode, it provides contextual information in a visual and interactive way.
- Efficient consumption: less data and energy usage compared to streaming apps.
Performance and User Experience
Although many people praise the app, there's one important caveat: it only works if your device actually has an FM chip activated—not all smartphones have this feature enabled. On compatible devices, using headphones as an antenna is effective and practical. Users on forums like Reddit point out that NextRadio was “the only option that captured a true FM signal on smartphones”, working “without failures while only requiring the enabled chip”.
On the other hand, there are reports that newer versions have cut off full access to the tuner, sometimes requiring downgrades to previous versions to regain functionality.
Technical and Historical Context
NextRadio was developed by Emmis Corporation, with support from the radio industry, to enable FM reception on smartphones—without internet access. As of 2021, version 6.0.2492 (released on January 2, 2019) is still available on Google Play. The strategy was to combine traditional radio with enriched digital content via TagStation—a cloud-based data platform for information synchronized with FM.
Although it's been available since 2013 and comes pre-installed on some devices, support has been reduced over time, including layoffs of staff dedicated to the project. However, the version remains available in the store.
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Quick summary of NextRadio benefits:
- Allows you to listen to FM radio without using data, ideal for emergencies or places with weak connection.
- Provides visual and interactive information with active connection.
- Consumes less data and battery than streaming radios.
- It only works on cell phones with an activated FM chip — compatibility needs to be checked.
A fluid, complete, and practical experience, perfect for those who value traditional radio with a modern touch.
