There are high-tech gadgets like mobile phones, computers, and tablets in today's world, but most people often ask why the radio still exists. Radio has remained a powerful tool since its invention in the 1890s. Thanks to advances in technology, radios continue to have more improved features. As a result, they play a vital role in our daily lives. This article covers reasons why radio is still important.
It reaches many people
Almost all households and working places have at least one broadcast receiver. Furthermore, they are consumed away from home like running errands, engaging in outdoor activities, or driving to or from work. These pieces remain the most used medium for mass communication. Compared to television, newspapers, and mobile phones, radio remains top. According to UNESCO, about 44,000 radio stations broadcast to approximately 5 billion people, representing 70% of the world population.
It’s democratic
Radio is the most democratic medium in providing access to everyone. For instance, the community stations are managed and controlled by local people. For this reason, they offer broad-based participation by engaging multiple voices to contribute. Radio gives listeners freedom despite their religion, level of education, financial status, tribe, race, or gender. In addition, some countries have different dialects or languages. This is another way that local stations are still relevant.
Music
Music has remained a vital tool for centuries. It helps to improve mood and the ability to cope with the highs and lows of life. In recent years, research has argued that music can act as therapy. Health care professionals use this technique to help patients combat anxiety, depression, stress, dementia, etc.
We come across music every day through receivers. They offer streaming services that make the listening experience richer and cooler. Also, the Bluetooth technology adds entertainment options by allowing you to play songs on your tablet, computer, or cell phone.
Portable
There are times we need to move around the house or spend time outdoors. Nonetheless, you can’t access the internet everywhere, especially in remote places. This is where radios come to play. They can also withstand conditions such as shock, dust, and water.
A portable receiver has a built-in power source like a battery or an atomic reactor. Therefore, it has limited output power, and you don’t need to plug it into the electrical grid. You can carry extra batteries when going to rural areas. Some have a battery indicator to alert you about the battery status. This older technology can provide companionship and match your new pace.
Reduces time spent on screen
Electronics are part of our life. Nevertheless, spending more time on screen has negative effects. It can cause obesity, sleep problems, depression, anxiety, and chronic back and neck pain. Radios help you to limit the time on electronics hence improving your health. They are functional; thus, you can get news or play your own playlist. You can listen to it anytime, anywhere.
Cost-effective
Radio is more affordable compared to other electronics. The cost of producing them is lower, unlike creating television and other visual content. Further, they cost less to power, you only need batteries, and you’re good to go.
Saves lives
Networks and cell towers are often susceptible vulnerable to disruption from harsh weather, solar flares, and mechanical failure. The last thing you want is to fumble around trying to find what you require for a natural disaster.
Whether it is regular Atmospheric Administration Weather or a National Oceanic radio, they are an essential part of an emergency preparedness kit. They travel farther than an LTE broadcast. As a result, it is easy to get signals, and emergency alerts will reach as many people as possible.
If you are in an emergency area, you will receive special NOAA weather radio. This agency broadcasts hazard information like warnings and forecasts and watches 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Besides weather alerts, they provide sustainable power and light. Lastly, they have multiple back-ups charging options, including hand crank, solar panel, AA batteries, and durable rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Brings the community together
Gone are the days when people had to pass information by word of mouth. However, not everyone in rural areas can rely on television, newspaper, or the internet for information happening around the society. Shortwave receivers have a massive range. They can be received hundreds of miles from the transmitter, while the transmissions can travel through countries, mountain ranges, and oceans. Moreover, Radio stations are not only for hit music but also a catalyst for building society. It is the only tool in rural areas for nomadic herders in Mongolia to subsistence farmers in the mountains of Nepal.
Conclusion
Radios have emerged stronger as they absorb newer technologies and adapt to the different tastes of the newer generations. Therefore, they have become a medium of choice for people. They allow you to get news that is widely reported across the globe. Further, they have remained the last man standing in case of natural disasters. In addition, these devices go where new technologies like electricity and mobile signals can’t reach. This makes them the most effective way to deliver information in removed areas.
Besides the advantages of radios, you need to choose a radio that meets your needs. There are many things to consider like audio quality, connectivity, build quality, personalization, powering up, etc. SANGEAN offers a variety of radios for camping, traveling, outdoors, parties, home office, and many others. With 50 years of experience, we embrace the latest features to ensure we keep up with the market demand. To check some of our best products, get a quote, or ask questions, contact us here at SANGEAN.
