BBC Hindi Radio is now available on demand via mobile phone in the United States.
In a partnership with North American mobile phone radio distributor AudioNow, the BBC has provided two formats for Hindi-speakers available without downloads or the need for a data service plan.
Interested parties can dial (712) 432-6586 for access to a complete one-hour program, or (712) 432-6585 for two-minute news bulletins, updated twice a day.
The service is free, though BBC said users are encouraged to check their mobile contracts for the possibility of additional charges.
In a press release, BBC Hindi Head Amit Baruah said one in 10 weekly visitors to bbchindi.com accesses the site from the United States; he lauded the convenience of the new call-in option.
BBC Hindi by phone extends efforts by the BBC World Service to reach U.S. audiences; it offers via AudioNow in English, Arabic, Persian, Somali and Urdu as well.
Produced in Delhi, India, BBC Hindi is available through shortwave, medium-wave, FM and via mobile handheld devices. Its interactive evening program provides news analysis and interviews.
