History of Radio
When radio was developed commercially in the early 1900s, listeners needed to buy a radio set, tune in to a particular frequency for them to get a signal. Radio works by carrying information from a transmitter to a receiver. So that there is no interference on the frequencies, the frequency bands are regulated by law. Undoubtedly there are a lot of developments that have happened in the radio industry, and since the advent of the internet, radio streaming has become more popular.
Internet Radio
Also called online radio, this form of transmission is done through the internet, as the name suggests. The distribution is done through wireless communication in a network that is joined to switch pocket network through a disclosed source. Some of the aspects involved include live streaming or having continuous audio like they do in traditional media. The difference between podcasting and radio streaming is that podcasting requires users to download, while live streaming is not downloaded.
Benefits of Live Streaming for Radio Stations
If you are interested in radio production, you should consider getting into live streaming due to the benefits it has over traditional radio stations. Alternatively, you can have both by having a website where people can stream your content. Some of the benefits of live streaming include:
- It brings more listeners: Every radio station desires to have a large following and listeners who are loyal to the station. Streaming live means more people can access you through mobile devices and computers. Since users can access the station wherever they are, they are likely to return. It goes beyond the physical barriers that define traditional radio, meaning people from across the continent can access the content.
- Allows users to give immediate feedback: During live streaming, users can provide their comments, suggestions and requests. This is a good way for the radio stations to do an analysis and find out what the listeners want to engage with, and how they can package their content better.
- Brings in advertisers: If you are available online, you do not restrict yourself to traditional advertising. This is good news at a time when traditional media is struggling with finding new ways to bring in advertisers. If you are a start-up radio company, it allows you to attract advertisers, hence ensuring sustainability.
- Promotes brand image: When listeners know that you are available online, it makes you credible, and they are likely to engage with you more than they would with radio stations that are off the net. Moreover, the name of the radio station will pop up more if you are online, boosting the name of your station among people who may otherwise not have known about your existence.