Australian’s now have the ability to listen to digital radio directly off of their phones with the release of the LG Stylus DAB+ smartphone. Launched by LG and Commercial Radio Australia, the new phone features a built-in digital radio that provides access to 30 free digital-only radio stations.
The phone is able to listen to digital radio through a tuner that is activated when the user plugs in the included headphones, which double as an antenna. Radio stations are selected through the Digital Radio Plus app, which also displays pictures and song information on the screen.
Joan Warner, CEO of Commercial Radio Australia, says that digital radio is a stronger option moving forward than streaming services like Pandora, and that this new technology is a way to deliver a richer experience. She also revealed that Commercial Radio Australia has created an interface for the smartphone that allows listeners to see related internet content alongside digital radio.
DAB+ currently broadcasts digital radio throughout Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. Regional areas are expected to be added in 2017.
LG first launched the smartphone in Paris at Radiodays Europe. It is now available in Australia as of May 2 at a starting price of AU$449.
