New federal legislation may require U.S. automakers to include free AM radio in all new vehicles, reversing a decades-long trend of phasing out the technology in favor of digital alternatives. The proposed rule aims to address concerns over emergency alerts and accessibility, as AM radio remains a critical broadcast medium for public safety notifications. Industry observers suggest the move could spark debate over costs, design space, and the future of in-car entertainment as manufacturers adapt to the potential mandate. Automakers would need to integrate hardware capable of receiving AM signals, adding complexity to an already evolving automotive electronics landscape.
US carmakers could soon have to offer AM radio for free in new vehicles, according to new legislation TechRadar
