Most smartphones today do have a built-in FM radio chip, which means they are capable of receiving FM radio signals. However, the FM chip is often not activated or accessible on many devices. This decision lies in the hands of the mobile manufacturers, who choose to disable or switch off the FM capability.
There are a few reasons why manufacturers may choose to disable the FM chip. One possible reason is that they want to encourage users to stream music or listen to radio through internet services, as it can be more profitable for them. By disabling the FM chip, they can push users towards using data-intensive streaming services, which may result in increased revenue for them.
Another reason could be that the FM chip requires additional hardware components, which can add to the cost of manufacturing the device. By disabling the FM chip, manufacturers can reduce production costs and potentially offer the device at a lower price point to consumers.
It is worth noting that not all smartphones have the FM chip disabled. Some manufacturers, such as LG and Motorola, have chosen to activate the FM chip on their devices. However, this is not the case for the majority of smartphones on the market.
To find out if your specific phone has a built-in FM transmitter, you can check the specifications provided by the manufacturer. Look for terms like “FM radio” or “FM receiver” in the specifications or features list. If your phone does have an FM chip, you can use it to listen to local FM radio stations without relying on internet connectivity.
If your phone does not have the FM chip activated, there are still options available to listen to FM radio. Some apps and streaming services provide access to FM radio stations through the internet, allowing you to listen to your favorite stations even without the FM chip. However, this would require an internet connection and may consume data.
In my personal experience, I have come across several smartphones that do not have the FM chip activated. I found this disappointing as I enjoy listening to local radio stations, especially during long commutes or when traveling to new places. It is frustrating to know that the capability is there, but it is disabled by the manufacturer.
While many smartphones do have a built-in FM radio chip, the FM capability is often disabled by manufacturers. This decision may be driven by financial considerations or the desire to promote internet-based streaming services. If having access to FM radio is important to you, it is recommended to check the specifications of a phone before purchasing to ensure that the FM chip is activated.