Drivers Still Choose Broadcast Radio Over Streaming In The Car, Study Finds.

Broadcast radio remains firmly entrenched as the leading in-car audio choice, according to a new international study that concludes drivers still expect radio to be a standard feature even as connected vehicles offer an expanding array of entertainment options.

The research, unveiled Thursday (June 11) at WorldDAB Automotive 2026 in Frankfurt, found that 83% of recent car buyers listen to radio while driving, making it the most widely used in-car audio source by a significant margin. Half of respondents identified radio as the audio platform they use most often, compared with 20% for music streaming services and 12% for personal music libraries.

Radio also showed a commanding lead in daily listening habits. Thirty-one percent of respondents said they listened to broadcast radio every day during the previous week, more than double the 15% who reported daily use of streaming music services.

The findings suggest consumers continue to view radio as an essential part of the driving experience. When asked which features are “must haves” in a new vehicle, 62% selected radio, ranking it ahead of built-in navigation systems, touchscreen displays and smartphone mirroring technology. Among those who regularly listen in the car, 85% said they would “really miss” having radio available.

For markets where DAB+ digital broadcasting is available, listeners also reported high levels of satisfaction. Ninety-five percent of DAB+ users said they like the platform, while 91% described it as easy to access. Respondents cited sound quality, reliability, station variety and enhanced display information among its strengths.

Ease of use emerged as one of broadcast radio’s biggest advantages. Nearly all respondents agreed radio is simple to operate, with 87% saying it is only “one click away” and 72% describing it as easier to use than other audio sources while driving.

The study also highlighted radio’s role during emergencies. Eighty-three percent of respondents said broadcast radio is very important during disasters, while more than half identified it as the first source they would turn to for information while on the road. Two-thirds also believe radio is safer to use than competing audio platforms.

Beyond news and music, respondents credited radio with providing companionship and local connection. Eighty-five percent said it helps keep them informed about the world, while 69% said it strengthens their connection to their local community.

WorldDAB President Jacqueline Bierhorst said the findings reinforce radio’s continuing importance in the automotive environment despite the rapid growth of connected technologies.

“This research gives a clear verdict from car buyers: broadcast radio belongs in cars,” Bierhorst said. “Drivers expect it, rely on it and value it — not only for entertainment, but also for trusted information, safety and connection.”

The research was commissioned by WorldDAB and conducted by Fifty5Blue, formerly Kantar Media. It surveyed 8,000 adults across Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom who had purchased or leased a vehicle within the past five years and were familiar with modern in-car infotainment systems.