Edison Research data shows mobile devices have overtaken AM/FM Radio among 13-34-year-olds listening to audio in vehicles. The shift marks a major change in how younger Americans access audio behind the wheel.
What We Know: Edison Research’s latest Share of Ear data shows mobile devices now account for 46% of in-car listening among Americans ages 13-34. AM/FM Radio receivers account for 43%, giving mobile devices a three-point lead. In 2015, mobile devices represented 19% of in-car listening for the demographic, while AM/FM Radio stood at 66%. The reversal reflects the rapid growth of smartphones as an audio platform.
What’s At Stake: The findings highlight the changing role of the traditional car radio among younger listeners. However, Edison’s data measures the device used to consume audio rather than the source itself. As a result, mobile listening can include streams from AM/FM Radio stations.
What Remains Unclear: The data doesn’t indicate how much of the 46% attributed to mobile devices comes from streamed AM/FM Radio. Edison Research‘s separate Q1 2026 data found AM/FM Radio accounted for 46% of total in-car audio time among 13-34-year-olds when measured by audio source.
What It Means: Younger listeners increasingly use mobile devices to access audio in the car. Still, AM/FM Radio remains a major source, particularly when station streams are included in the overall measurement.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
