Free FM, the Waikato's Access radio station, has its own app available - and as the name suggests, it's free.
The Free FM app allows users of iPhones, iPads and Android devices access to programme schedules, feature shows, latest news updates and crisp, clear live streaming radio. It can bedownloaded from the iTunes store and Google Play.
Free FM's Manager Phil Grey said the app, a vital part of the modern radio picture, was developed by Firecrest Systems.
"We're thrilled to have the app available for download. Having the app complements Free FM's existing Waikato-wide coverage on 89 FM, as well as our existing live stream and download options via our website and iTunes, Phil says.
"Radio is evolving quickly. These days, as many people download podcasts as they tune in to a radio frequency - our podcasts have had well over 100,000 downloads so far this year, and our app reflects that changing world. It makes our content available to a much larger audience - those with smartphones and tablet devices."
Free FM youth broadcasters Izzy Bai and Corbin Baxter say the app reflected the way they tended to listen to radio.
Izzy sports an iPhone and Corbin uses an Android . Now they can take Free FM with them wherever there's an internet connection.
"People I know are a lot more likely to tune in via a phone, or download a podcast, than they are to listen to radio at home, so this app is great for them," Corbin says.
"Radio at Free FM is made by the community, for the community," Phil says. "It's vital that we offer our audience as many ways as possible to receive and interact with Free FM's quality content."
The Free FM app is being made available to the country's other access stations for modification with their branding and content.
