In the not-so-distant past, FM Radio was a common feature found in most smartphones. However, as time passed, this feature gradually disappeared from newer models, leaving only basic feature phones and some lower-end devices with this capability. But now, the Indian government has taken a stand on the matter and issued a directive to smartphone manufacturers in the country, urging them to ensure that FM Radio is enabled and readily available on their devices.
Radio broadcasting has been around for centuries, serving as a reliable and effective means of communication. It plays a crucial role in alerting the public during emergencies and disasters, acting as a crucial link between local authorities and citizens. Besides, FM Radio offers a vast range of information and entertainment to its listeners.
In a bid to bridge the digital divide and provide radio services to those residing in rural and remote areas, the Indian government has mandated the inclusion of FM Radio on all smartphones. This move ensures that every citizen has access to these services, especially in difficult times.
The Minister of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has made it clear that smartphone manufacturers must not disable the FM Radio feature, especially if it comes pre-installed. And if it doesn't, then it must be included. Interestingly, while most smartphone chipsets support FM Radio, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) tend to disable the feature. For instance, Apple, the Cupertino-based tech giant, does not provide FM Radio on its iPhones.
To ensure compliance, the Indian Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) and Manufacturers' Association for Information Technology (MAID) have received an advisory from the government, requesting that they make FM Radio easily accessible on smartphones. This directive is expected to make FM Radio more accessible and widespread, creating new opportunities for listeners and broadcasters alike.
In a bid to bridge the digital divide and provide radio services to those residing in rural and remote areas, the Indian government has mandated the inclusion of FM Radio on all smartphones. This move ensures that every citizen has access to these services, especially in difficult times.
The Minister of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has made it clear that smartphone manufacturers must not disable the FM Radio feature, especially if it comes pre-installed. And if it doesn't, then it must be included. Interestingly, while most smartphone chipsets support FM Radio, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) tend to disable the feature. For instance, Apple, the Cupertino-based tech giant, does not provide FM Radio on its iPhones.
To ensure compliance, the Indian Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) and Manufacturers' Association for Information Technology (MAID) have received an advisory from the government, requesting that they make FM Radio easily accessible on smartphones. This directive is expected to make FM Radio more accessible and widespread, creating new opportunities for listeners and broadcasters alike.
Author
- Anurag
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