There are countless ways to enjoy music these days, from streaming services and Radio Apps to music videos and even classic formats like vinyl, which continue to thrive. But sometimes, you just want to press play and let the music flow without worrying about playlists or song order. While radio might not be as dominant as it once was, it remains a fantastic option for discovering new tunes and relaxing. Here’s a look at some of the best radio apps for Android available right now.
The Best Radio Apps for Android
1. AccuRadio
AccuRadio might not have the same name recognition as some of the bigger radio apps, but it offers a surprisingly solid experience. With over 1,000 radio channels to explore, it provides plenty of variety, and the best part is that each station is fully customizable. You can skip songs as much as you want, rate tracks, and even block certain artists or songs, shaping the station to play only what you enjoy. While it has a few drawbacks—like the lack of Chromecast support and occasional server hiccups—it still delivers a great overall listening experience.
2. iHeartRadio
iHeartRadio stands out as one of the most popular radio apps, offering a wide range of stations to suit any listener. It features both FM stations and iHeartRadio’s exclusive channels, along with playlists tailored to nearly every mood and occasion, from your favorite genres to holiday-themed collections like Christmas and Halloween.
The app is free to use, supported by in-stream ads, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious users. Plus, it integrates with Chromecast and Android Wear for added convenience. For those looking to enhance their experience, iHeartradio apps offers a premium tier at $4.99 per month, and for $12.99 per month, you can upgrade to All Access, unlocking features like on-demand song playback and more.
3. Pandora Radio
Pandora Radio, a longtime favorite among music lovers, remains one of the most well-known radio apps out there. It revolutionized the way people stream music by offering a unique, personalized listening experience that has gained widespread popularity over the years. Instead of traditional stations, Pandora allows users to build their own based on favorite artists, genres, or even specific songs.
While it does offer pre-made playlists, many users prefer the freedom of creating their own. For an ad-free experience, you can upgrade to a premium subscription for $4.99 per month. For even more perks, including on-demand song selection, Pandora Premium is available for $9.99 per month.
4. Radio Online
Radio Online is a classic choice for those who enjoy traditional radio. The app offers access to hundreds of stations, covering a wide range of content, all available for streaming at your convenience. It features both internet-based stations and FM channels that support online streaming. Upgrading to the pro version unlocks extra features like live radio recording, a sleep timer, and more. Straightforward and reliable, it delivers exactly what you’d expect without the unnecessary frills, making it a great pick for users seeking a simple, no-nonsense radio apps experience.
5. myTuner Radio
If you’re a fan of traditional radio content, myTuner Radio is a standout choice. It offers an extensive library with over 50,000 stations from more than 200 countries and regions. The app goes beyond just music, providing access to podcasts and a wide range of talk radio categories. It also includes useful features like a sleep timer and alarm. Plus, it’s compatible with Android Auto, Sonos, and most streaming devices. While some users mention occasional streaming hiccups, overall, it’s a reliable option for radio appsenthusiasts. Best of all, it’s free for Google Play Pass users.
6. SiriusXM
SiriusXM was a pioneer in moving beyond traditional AM and FM radio, offering a wide range of content with over 150 channels. These include everything from music and sports to popular shows like Howard Stern. You can pick from three subscription plans, depending on the type of content you’re interested in. While the app has improved and is generally stable, it’s not without its issues, so don’t expect perfection just yet. SiriusXM is also cross-platform, and many cars come with it already installed, allowing you to enjoy it without needing Bluetooth or any extra connection in most newer vehicles.
7. Spotify
Spotify has become a go-to music streaming app, especially for fans of radio-style listening. Beyond offering stations based on genre, mood, and artists, it creates curated playlists like the “Worldwide Top 50” and even introduces you to fresh tracks you haven’t heard yet. The free version provides access to most of these radio features, but upgrading to the premium plan at $10.99/month removes ads and unlocks extra perks. It’s definitely one of the top choices for music lovers.
Apple Music also offers a solid streaming radio service that’s surprisingly good. Plus, with its growing focus on podcasts, it’s now a great option for talk radio enthusiasts too.
8. TuneIn Radio
TuneIn Radio offers an incredibly diverse selection of radio stations, covering everything from music to sports, comedy, talk shows, news, and more. With the free version, you get access to over 100,000 stations and millions of podcasts. Upgrading to the premium version unlocks even more perks, including live broadcasts of NFL, MLB, and Barclays Premier League games, as well as audiobooks and an ad-free experience. Pricing varies by region, but overall, TuneIn is a top-notch radio apps, especially for those interested in more than just music.
9. XiliaLive Internet Radio
XiiaLive Internet Radio may not be as well-known as some other radio apps, but it certainly packs a punch with its feature set. With access to over 50,000 live radio stations, it offers more than enough variety for most listeners. The app also allows you to organize and save your favorite stations for easy access. Additional features include customizable themes, data management tools, and advanced options like the ability to add your own radio station URL, an equalizer for fine-tuning sound, and Bluetooth compatibility. XiiaLive is available in both free and paid versions, though the radio service itself is entirely free to use.
10. Audials Radio
Audials Radio stands out for its comprehensive music and radio recording features. It allows users to record live streams and save them for offline listening. Audials offers thousands of radio apps stations across all genres and languages. It’s a great app for users who want to not only listen but also record and organize their favorite music.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for highly curated music experiences, live radio apps from around the world, or personalized stations, there’s an Android app for everyone. With apps like Spotify and Pandora leading the way in personalization, and unique offerings such as Radio Garden’s global map, music lovers have plenty of options to explore.