AM/FM Radio Remains Dominant In Evolving In-Car Audio Landscape.

As dashboard technology gets smarter and more personalized, AM/FM radio remains the preferred companion for drivers, according to the latest findings from Audacy’s Connected Car study. The report, now in its fifth wave since 2021, reveals that two-thirds of drivers still consider local radio their primary in-car audio source — even as infotainment systems continue to add streaming and digital options.

Despite the rise of voice-activated systems, AI-powered dashboards, and an explosion of audio content choices, traditional broadcast radio holds strong. Nine in ten listeners turn to local radio for breaking news — outpacing social media and mobile apps — while 89% say they want access to their favorite stations and personalities behind the wheel.

“Audio continues to be the heartbeat of the in-car experience,” the report notes, highlighting that drivers prioritize audio over navigation and phone calls when it comes to dashboard use. Seven in ten say it’s the top feature they rely on while driving.

Radio’s Edge: Personality And Local Connection

The enduring appeal of AM/FM, according to Audacy, lies in its localism and human touch. While digital platforms deliver choice, drivers continue to value familiar voices delivering traffic, weather, sports, and community-focused content, especially when navigating their daily routines.

Streaming may offer access to stations like WFAN or WXRT from across the country, but it’s radio’s authenticity and immediacy that keep it in the driver’s seat. Radio personalities “battle the same clogged highways, root for hometown teams,” and create a connection that algorithms can’t replicate, the study notes.

The Role Of Apps And AI

While traditional radio remains strong, digital platforms are expanding access. Forty-four percent of connected car users report streaming radio via apps, whether commuting locally or on long-distance trips.

The next evolution? AI-powered dashboards and personalized listening experiences. The report points to growing consumer interest in features like voice control (preferred by eight in ten drivers), as well as biometric sensors that could adjust audio based on driver mood or alertness. Audacy says these capabilities are driving demand for smarter, safer, and more responsive infotainment options.

Implications For Advertisers

The evolving dashboard also presents new opportunities for advertisers. Enhanced infotainment systems now allow radio spots to be paired with visual cues — such as brand logos or calls to action — on screen. Geographic targeting and personalization are opening the door for more impactful, context-driven messaging.

Audacy outlined three key takeaways for marketers:

1. Embrace Personalization – Tailor messaging to mood, time of day, or content preferences.

2. Ensure Seamless Experiences – Maintain brand presence across environments: home, car, and mobile.

3. Leverage Radio’s Trust – Align with radio’s credibility and localism to drive real-world action.

As AI and infotainment continue to evolve, Audacy’s research underscores that local radio is more than just a legacy platform — it’s a critical part of the connected car experience.

More insights from the Connected Car study, including segment-specific behavior, are expected in the coming weeks via Audacy Insights.