Have an LG-branded Android-powered smartphone? Your next model will have an enabled FM chip, allowing you to use the data-free version of the TagStation LLC-owned NextRadio app.
That’s thanks to an agreement forged between TagStation and LG Electronics MobileComm that will not only enable FM chips in LG phones, but also see the NextRadio app preloaded onto several models — subject to agreements with wireless carriers.
LG’s FM chip enabling plan isn’t limited to the 50 states: The company’s handsets in Canada and across Latin America, where NextRadio has made significant strides, will also be “switched on” for FM radio broadcast signals.
With the Android-powered NextRadio app, users have access to data-free local over-the-air FM radio, while experiencing interactive music content, promotions and ads synced to the on-air broadcast.
The direct connection to the phone’s FM chip allows users to use 3 times less battery and 20 times less data than streaming radio apps when listening to NextRadio broadcasts; the iOS version is streaming exclusive, due to Apple’s continued unwillingness to unlock the FM chip already present in the majority of its iPhones.
“We are proud and excited to partner with one of the world’s leading smartphone providers to continue our mission of connecting and exposing users to a fully immersive radio experience,” said NextRadio President Paul Brenner. “This alliance will give millions of consumers the opportunity to receive real over-the-air FM radio through their phone.”
