Global FM Radio Listening: Demographics and Trends
How much of the majority listens to FM Radio? This is actually a very difficult question to answer.
Regional Variability in FM Radio Usage
First of all, which part of the world are you considering? Radio markets vary greatly from country to country. For instance, in Norway, public and commercial FM broadcast networks are in the process of being phased out. It is safe to say that in this country, only a small percentage of people still listen to FM.
FM Radio Usage Patterns
Are you asking about how many people out of the entire population use an FM radio at some point, or are you asking what percentage of people who listen to the radio use FM? If it is the latter, which one or more of the following alternatives are you considering as competitors for FM? AM, mediumwave, shortwave, Internet radio, DAB, and/or subscription-based satellite radio. If somebody were to listen to programming originated at an FM radio station using the Internet, would you consider that FM listening or Internet radio listening?
US Perspectives on FM and AM Radio
In the US, Nielsen Media research studies these types of media consumption trends. Many users do not listen to a lot of FM radio, but AM radio is another story. I, for instance, listen to a ton of AM radio. FM radio, in my experience, is mostly commercialized stations with little personality and limited music selection, with a few exceptions like public radio stations. However, AM radio has many unique, small, and locally owned stations that play a good variety of music with very few commercials. The sound quality of AM is often lower, but I am willing to deal with it for the programming quality.
My personal experience with radio is illustrated by an old transistor radio, a Magnavox AM-60 from 1961. Despite the age of the device, it captures a nostalgic and still relevant experience of AM radio.
FM Radio's Ubiquity
At some point or other in their week, almost everyone encounters FM radio, whether they recognize it or not. The young are the least likely to do so, with many never turning on an FM station. However, most adults will encounter it at some point during their day or week. FM is ubiquitous in our lives, playing in many workplaces, and making a significant presence in our daily routines, whether we turn it on deliberately or not.
Conclusion
The question of how much of the majority listens to FM radio is multifaceted and depends on various factors, including geographic location, demographic characteristics, and technological advancements. Understanding these factors is essential for marketers and broadcasters to tailor their strategies effectively.