Internet radio (also known as web radio) is an audio service transmitted over the Internet. It presents listeners with a continuous stream of audio over the internet that cannot be paused or stopped, much like traditional broadcast media.
Internet radio can be enjoyed on dedicated internet radio devices via apps or via your computer.
Breaking geographical barriers
The biggest advantage of internet radio is that you can tune into any radio station from across the world as long as there is an online feed. For example a listener sitting in the UK can not only listen to a UK based internet radio station but a station based in the US, Brazil, India, Australia, or any other country from around the world that has internet radio stations.
Cutting across genres
Another advantage of listening to internet radio is that you can tune into specialist radio stations that play music from specific genres. So for example if you are a big Blues fan then you can tune into a station that will play only Blues music. Similarly if you are a Classic Rock fan, you will find stations online that cater spefically to people who love Classic Rock. You can tune into whatever you are in the mood for provided it is available over the internet.
However, a few networks such as the US based Clear Channel and CBS Radio, UK based Chrysalis are only allowing people from within the respective countries to listen to the stations because of music licensing concerns.
Review an internet radio player
To date RNIB has not reviewed the accessibility of internet radio players but are interested in hearing from you if you have been using the service and would like to share your opinions with other readers.