Really dumb question. Does FM radio use data time?

CSI Guy

Well-known member
Feb 25, 2009
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I know, I know, I should know this but don't. Does the FM radio use data time or is it just like having a FM radio built into the phone and just uses regular air waves for the radio like your car?
 
It requires headphones because the headphones act as the radio antenna. Without them the phone cannot pick up the radio signal.

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I don't understand why it requires headphones though.

Cleverly, it uses the headphone cable as an FM antenna--works with any headphones, just needed something with a bit more reach. Some early smartphones had this too (and many portable radios have done it for years)
 
Question still remains, does it use data? Is it just like a pocket FM Radio? I just cant believe you could use the radio for free, Come on Providers, you could find a way to make money on this. Just kidding.
 
Question still remains, does it use data? Is it just like a pocket FM Radio? I just cant believe you could use the radio for free, Come on Providers, you could find a way to make money on this. Just kidding.

No data. Assuming you're using a "Real" over the air FM radio app.

Just turn off your data and WiFi and see.

Many streaming apps have "FM" in the name and of course they use data.
 
I had the same question about my HTC One concerning data usage. When I read your simple suggestion, I felt pretty dumb! Thanks...HTC One FM Radio works just fine with data turned off.
 
It doesn't use data. The headphones act as an antenna to pick up airwaves. It's a free radio tuner.
 
The FM radio functionality (actual FM radio with SoundHound - NO DATA streaming) was a significant selling point to me. My second choice phone ( Galaxy S4) doesn't have it.
 
I also find the FM radio to be one of the selling points. How are you people finding the reception?
 
Yes it does, i tried to access my local radio station would work with data on, but not with it off. My previous samsung s3 had a built in radion that you needed to have the headphones in to act as an aerial, however with the s5 doesn't come with this built in radio. All i can see is radios that need data allowance, which sucks.
 
Right !! Great point! Now if someone would just answer the question instead of giving us a bunch of garbage
 
I was wondering the same question I tried turning off days and wifi and it still worked yeah so i hey gotta find out which uses more battery radio or my music on my SD card played thru fristwire while I'm walking