Can Internet Radios Replace FM Stations?
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Can Internet Radios Replace FM Stations?

In recent years, internet radios have become more popular—or at least, it seems that way. Either way, this puts them in constant competition with FM radio. But can internet radio actually replace FM radio?

With mobile devices, computers, and smart listening platforms, people can listen to music, news, and podcasts without needing traditional radio frequencies. However, let’s be honest—this is an alternative way of thinking about radio.

When people hear the word radio, they usually think of FM signals. That makes sense because the first commercial FM station started broadcasting in 1939 (W2XMN FM). In contrast, the first internet radio launched much later, in 1993, under the name Internet Talk Radio.

You might ask, “But the first radio in Azerbaijan was launched on November 6, 1926!” That’s true. However, we’re talking about FM radio, and Azerbaijan Radio originally used the AM band until it switched to FM in 2001.

Why FM Radio Still Matters

Despite the rise of internet radio, it’s hard to replace something with such a long history. Here’s why:

  1. FM radio works even without the internet – If you have a radio device or plug in wired earphones to your phone, you can still listen.
  2. You can buy a simple radio device for your home.
  3. Drivers still prefer FM radio while commuting.
  4. FM stations also stream online, so they are adapting to new trends.

The Downsides of FM Radio

Of course, FM radio isn’t perfect. Here are some of its biggest issues:

  1. Too many ads – Many stations interrupt songs with ads just before they finish.
  2. Repeating the same hit songs over and over.
  3. Hosts making fun of callers on live shows.

Sometimes, we have no choice but to listen to these radio stations. For example, one morning, while people were heading to work or school, a station played Samra’s “Tərs Gedir”—a song that completely ruined the mood and killed any motivation.

Internet radio is more popular among young listeners. As technology advances and mobile internet gets cheaper, FM radio might lose some of its audience. But for now, FM stations aren’t going anywhere.

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