Did you know that most Android powered smartphones are equipped with a FM chip, which would enable people to listen to their local stations for free, without data charges ?

That’s right. Instead of streaming your favourite local FM stations and paying for minutes or data you could be listening to them off the air, even when your cell service is down. But chances are your local cell provider has decided to turn it off because they think there isn’t a demand for it.

I’ve signed the change.org petition on this issue because people should be able to access the local FM stations during emergencies and do so using less of their battery power. And I recommend you do so as well and consult freeradioonmyphone.ca for additional information.

BTW, some Samsung Galaxy Tab users are able to use the NextRadio app to enable their FM chip, provided they did not purchase it via a cell provider. Click here for details.