AM/FM Radio Still Streaming Ahead in the U.S., Despite Digital Surge
Table of Contents
- 1. AM/FM Radio Still Streaming Ahead in the U.S., Despite Digital Surge
- 2. AM/FM’s Unexpected Resilience
- 3. Generational Divide, but Radio Still a contender
- 4. The Rise of Online Audio and In-Car Tech
- 5. CarPlay and Android Auto: the Dashboard Battle
- 6. Looking Ahead: The Future of In-Car Audio
- 7. How will AM/FM radio adapt too the growing popularity of digital audio platforms like Spotify and podcasts in the next five years?
- 8. AM/FM Radio’s Enduring Presence: An Interview with Media Analyst, sarah Chen
- 9. Key Findings: Radio’s Audience in a Digital World
- 10. The Digital Impact: Streaming and In-Car Technology
- 11. The Future of AM/FM Radio
New data shows broadcast radio maintains a strong presence in American vehicles in 2025, even with the rise of smartphone integrations.
March 22, 2025
AM/FM’s Unexpected Resilience
In an era dominated by digital audio and on-demand entertainment, AM/FM radio is proving too be surprisingly resilient in the united States. While “plug and play digital audio” becomes increasingly accessible for drivers, the latest Infinite dial study reveals the enduring strength of traditional broadcast radio. The report indicates that despite a significant number of Americans having dashboard integrations with their mobile phones,broadcast radio usage has actually increased compared to the previous year.
The trend seems to be reversing as more American workers gradually return to regular office schedules, reclaiming their daily commutes.As work-from-home arrangements become less common, many are tuning back into AM/FM radio during their morning and afternoon drives. Though, its crucial to note that even though numbers for over-the-air listening are up, they still haven’t fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels.
According to the Infinite Dial study, conducted in January 2025, “three-quarters (74%) of Americans drivers and passengers aged 18 and older currently use AM/FM radio as an audio source in their primary vehicle.” This represents a notable increase of four percentage points as 2023, suggesting a renewed interest in traditional radio.
| Audio Source | Percentage of Users (18+) |
|---|---|
| AM/FM Radio | 74% |
| Online Audio (via phone or vehicle system) | 55% |
| Podcasts | 31% |
| SiriusXM | ~25% |
| CDs | ~25% |
Generational Divide, but Radio Still a contender
The appeal of broadcast radio is notably strong among older demographics. The study reveals that “84% of people surveyed over the age of 55 use AM/FM while in the car.” this demographic relies on radio for news, traffic updates, and familiar music formats.
Though, AM/FM’s reach extends beyond older listeners. The report indicates that “even among Gen Z and Millennials, over-the-air radio still dominates in the car.A majority, 54% of 18- to 34-year-olds, listen while in a vehicle, and 78% of 35 to 54-year-olds do the same.” This suggests that despite the proliferation of digital alternatives, radio continues to hold a significant share of the in-car audio market across all age groups.
“While AM/FM radio in the car is heavier among the older generations, well over half of those 18 to 34 are also listening to radio in the car,”
Edison VP Megan Lazovick
However, lazovick acknowledges the shifting landscape: “Of course, the younger generation is more likely to listen to any of the digital sources.”
This highlights the ongoing competition between traditional radio and digital platforms for the attention of younger drivers and passengers. As an example, streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music offer personalized playlists and on-demand content, appealing to the desire for customized audio experiences. Podcasts, with their diverse range of topics and formats, provide another attractive option.
The Rise of Online Audio and In-Car Tech
The Infinite Dial study sheds light on the growing popularity of online audio and in-car entertainment systems. According to the report, “A majority, 55% of Americans age 18 and older, say they have listened to online audio in their car during the past month either via a phone or directly through the vehicle system. And nearly a third (31%) listened to podcasts.” these figures highlight the increasing adoption of digital audio sources among American drivers.
In contrast,”roughly one in four” use SiriusXM or CDs.
“Car ownership turns over quite slowly in the U.S.,”
Lazovick
She further adds that “Only about 5% of cars on the road in any given year will be one of the newest models, so it shouldn’t be surprising that there are car CD players still around, and 24% of drivers reported using them.” The data confirms that older drivers are most likely to use CDs.
CarPlay and Android Auto: the Dashboard Battle
The Infinite Dial study also examines the impact of dashboard integration systems on audio consumption in vehicles. “edison says 28% of people it surveyed say they have Apple CarPlay, while 19% have Android Auto.” The numbers indicate a clear lead for Apple CarPlay in terms of overall adoption.
Lazovick, speaking on a webinar, pointed out the “considerable growth” of both systems. “Only 16% of drivers had an Apple CarPlay last year, while Android Auto grew by three points year-to-year. “This represents a essential shift in how Americans access audio in their vehicles,” she said.
However, it’s vital to differentiate between ownership and usage.Edison reports that “22% reported they currently use Apple carplay,and 13% reported they use Android Auto.” While ownership of these systems is growing, actual usage lags behind, suggesting that some drivers may not be fully utilizing the features and functionalities of these platforms. The overall takeaway is clear: “In 2025, that number has reached a third,” indicating a growing reliance on integrated phone systems for in-car entertainment.
Consider a family road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles. While the parents might enjoy tuning into local AM stations for traffic updates and regional news as they pass through different states, the kids in the back might prefer streaming their favorite playlists through Apple CarPlay, using apps like Spotify or YouTube Music. The driver can use Android Auto for navigation, minimizing the need to look at a phone, thus keeping the focus on the road.
Looking Ahead: The Future of In-Car Audio
the 2025 Infinite Dial study paints a complex picture of the in-car audio landscape in the United states. While digital audio sources and smartphone integrations are gaining traction, AM/FM radio continues to hold a significant share of the market, particularly among older demographics. To maintain relevance in the evolving audio landscape, radio broadcasters need to adapt to changing consumer preferences and explore new ways to deliver content. This coudl involve enhancing their digital presence through streaming apps and podcasts, leveraging social media to engage with listeners, and experimenting with new audio formats and programming.
| Adaptations for AM/FM Radio | Examples |
|---|---|
| Digital Expansion | Developing streaming apps, producing podcasts, offering on-demand content |
| Enhanced User Experience | Improving audio quality, personalizing content, integrating with smart assistants |
| Community Engagement | Leveraging social media, hosting local events, partnering with community organizations |
How will AM/FM radio adapt too the growing popularity of digital audio platforms like Spotify and podcasts in the next five years?
AM/FM Radio’s Enduring Presence: An Interview with Media Analyst, sarah Chen
We discuss the continuing relevance of customary radio in the digital age.
Archyde News: Welcome, Sarah. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recently released Infinite Dial study. This research highlights some fascinating trends in the in-car audio landscape. To start, what’s your general takeaway from the data? Dose AM/FM radio still hold its ground?
Sarah Chen: Thanks for having me. Absolutely. The data paints a clear picture: despite the proliferation of digital options, AM/FM radio is surprisingly resilient in American vehicles. The study shows a critically important percentage of drivers still tune in.
Key Findings: Radio’s Audience in a Digital World
Archyde news: The report notes that 74% of drivers and passengers aged 18 and older still use AM/FM in their car. What’s driving this continued dominance?
Sarah Chen: Several factors contribute. Many people are returning to regular office schedules, increasing their commute times and opportunities for radio listening. Also, AM/FM provides a convenient and familiar experience. You can just turn it on and go; you don’t need to fiddle with playlists or pairing devices. It’s also a reliable source for news and local information, which is important, especially when commuting.
Archyde News: The study also highlights a generational divide. Are younger demographics shifting the balance toward digital audio?
Sarah Chen: Yes, but not as dramatically as many would assume. While older demographics, those over 55, are the most dedicated AM/FM listeners, a majority of younger listeners are also still tuned in. This also indicates that the “digital shift” isn’t quite a total takeover.
The Digital Impact: Streaming and In-Car Technology
Archyde News: We’re seeing a rapid integration of digital technologies in vehicles.How are platforms like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto impacting audio consumption?
Sarah Chen: They are certainly gaining traction. The adoption rate is growing, though the usage isn’t quite at the same level yet.But systems like CarPlay and Android Auto give access to on-demand audio, like streaming services and podcasts. The study indicates that over half of Americans listen to online audio via their phone or car’s system.
Archyde News: Considering the growth of these digital platforms, how can AM/FM radio stay relevant?
Sarah Chen: The key is adaptation. We’re already seeing that radio stations are focusing on digital expansion, which includes developing streaming apps, offering on-demand content, and producing more podcasts and digital content. They have to meet the audience, wherever they are.
The Future of AM/FM Radio
Archyde News: Do you think there’s a particular adaptation that will be key?
Sarah Chen: Engaging with the community seems most critically important. Radio has always been local. Expanding online content, improving audio quality, leveraging social media to connect with listeners, and partnering with community organizations are ways to stay relevant and valuable to listeners.
Archyde News: In wrapping up, the study presents a dynamic picture.Considering the trends, what do you think AM/FM radio will look like 5 years from now in the U.S. audio market?
Sarah Chen: I see a radio landscape where AM/FM continues to exist.Digital integration and its adaption are still going to be the key. It is indeed still critically important for radio to continue to compete across all devices people use on the go, and make listening as easy and convenient as possible. The focus for growth has to be in the digital world.
Archyde News: Sarah, thank you for your insightful viewpoint. This has been a great discussion.
Sarah Chen: My pleasure. Thanks for having me.
