While you could find FM transmitter apps, can they actually stream music to an FM radio?

That’s because a phone needs specific hardware to receive, much less transmit, FM radio signals.

That’s because many radio stationsboth FM and AMnow also broadcast online.

FM transmitter app running on a Samsung phone next to an illustration of a transmitter line

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Note that you don’t need a phone to listen to internet radio.

you’re free to also do so viaChrome extensions that let you listen to the radio.

The only way to do that is to use an FM transmitter or FM modulator machine.

FM radio app running on an Android phone with a graphical illustration of two FM radios

Smartmockupsand Kirill Tochenov/Shutterstock

These devices usually plug into your car’s auxiliary power outlet or are battery-powered.

Then, connect your phone to the transmitter or modulator via Bluetooth or auxiliary cable.

Some transmitters/modulators also come with USB ports, allowing you to charge your phone while driving.

A man mounting a phone in his car while driving

Blachkovsky/Shutterstock

Since anyone can tune in to your set frequency, you must remember that you have limited privacy.

And for more options, check outour guide on connecting your phone to your car audio system.

Wireless audio is a convenience that many of us would want to have in our cars.

Car dashboard with infotainment showing Android Auto

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