Why are AM stations leading the streaming revolution in Australia?
Last week’s radio survey results threw up an interesting statistic: AM stations are beating FM in the streaming market.
As John Musgrove, the head of research for Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA), explains, these results were surprising at first – but actually make a lot of sense.
As head of insights and research at Southern Cross Austereo for close to two decades, prior to moving to CRA, John Musgrove admits he didn’t pay much attention to AM radio in the survey results.
SCA were “definitely leaders” in terms of the digital space: uploading shows and extra content to websites, early adoption with apps, and the heavy investment in LiSTNR meant they were at the forefront of the ever-shifting landscape.
AM streaming has been around since the invention of Google & Alexa Speakers. “Hey Google play 6PR radio”. “Hey Alexa play ABC radio 1”
And they can automate all of your household lighting. “Hey google, turn the kitchen light on”.
They can also answer everyday questions like “what’s the weather forecast outside today”, or “what’s the temperature outside right now”.
Seniors love smart speakers!
We can’t live without them!
AM networks? They’re AM stations in each city, not networks Mr Musgorove!
Bravo JM … sage advice.
Hey John, we’re Baby Bommers, we invented stereo man, and we still love great quality sound. Streaming and smart speakers makes us all equal.
Could not agree more, there are so many opportunities to stream, and people are taking their favourite radio stations with them all over the country. I’ve had a 2UE listener take us with her as she travelled from Sydney all the way down to Hobart doing dog shows. John Musgrove makes a lot of sense.
I agree with this; Spotify for music & podcasts and 2GB for news and opinion. Too easy