in an era dominated by smartphones and streaming services, FM radio might seem like a relic of the past. Though, a recent massive blackout in Spain underscored the enduring value of this customary technology. On April 28, a widespread power outage left millions without mobile service, highlighting the vulnerability of our increasingly interconnected world. But those with mobile phones equipped with FM radio found themselves with a crucial advantage: access to real-time information.

The Blackout: A Wake-Up Call

The blackout, which affected much of Spain, left countless citizens unable to communicate. The interruption of mobile telephony services, caused by the electricity supply cut affecting antennas across the peninsula, left most of the population without coverage and data access. These antennas require a continuous energy source to transmit and receive signals, making them susceptible to power outages.

While major operators worked to restore services, the incident exposed the fragility of our reliance on constant connectivity. During those critical hours, individuals with FM radio-enabled phones could stay informed about the unfolding situation and the progress of recovery efforts.

The Decline and Potential Resurgence of FM Radio

It’s becoming increasingly rare to find homes with traditional radio devices. Moreover,many modern mobile phones no longer include FM radio as a native submission,nor do they have the classic 3.5-millimeter headphone jack necessary to capture the signal. However, some devices still retain these features, offering a vital advantage in emergencies.

A Decade Ago: FM Radio’s Heyday

Just a decade ago, listening to FM radio on mobile phones was commonplace. Devices had chips capable of receiving modulated frequency bands and required only the connection of wired headphones, which acted as an antenna. Once connected, the radio could play through speakers or headphones, all without mobile data or Wi-Fi.

However, technological advancements have gradually displaced this functionality. The progressive disappearance of the headphone connector, replaced by the USB-C port, has significantly reduced the presence of FM radio in new devices.

current Models Still Equipped with FM Radio

Although increasingly a minority, mobile phones with FM radio are still available. They offer a valuable tool not only in emergencies but also in rural environments or during outdoor activities. here are some examples:

• Samsung Galaxy A32 and A52: These mid-range models retain the FM radio option, provided headphones are used as an antenna.
• Motorola Moto G73 and Moto G Stylus: motorola continues to include this functionality in several recent models.
• LG K62 and LG K42: Although LG has exited the mobile market, some units of its latest models with FM radio can still be found.
• nokia 5.4 and Nokia 2.4: True to their tradition of durable and functional devices, Nokia phones continue to offer FM radio.
• CAT S62 Pro: This phone, designed for extreme conditions, does not forgo traditional radio.
• Sony Xperia 10 III: Even though Sony has reduced its smartphone range, some models retain this feature.

The continued existence of these devices demonstrates that, despite the rise of streaming and digital content consumption, FM radio remains an indispensable resource in certain situations.

Expert insights

Experts note that the reliance on cellular networks for emergency communication can be problematic. The blackout highlighted how dependent we’ve become on a single point of failure,” says a telecommunications analyst. Having alternative communication methods, like FM radio, is crucial for resilience.