Radioplayer goes hybrid with prototype Reference Radio for car dashboards

Radioplayer has introduced a prototype touchscreen radio for car dashboards. The Reference Radio is a hybrid technology that can play DAB digital radio, FM broadcasts, and Internet radio streams. All of the varied sources appear on one list rather than separated by format. Listeners can simply select the station they want and don’t need to know if it’s an FM channel or a DAB one.

Reference Radio has a large display with an intuitive interface designed to improve safety and reduce distractions for drivers. For now, playback is controlled by tapping or swiping on the dashboard screen or by using buttons on the steering wheel. Options for voice control will be tested in the next phase of development, as well as features for podcasts and personalization.

“We’ve distilled years of research, development and testing into this prototype, which will be the catalyst for a long-overdue conversation between broadcasters and car companies,” said Michael Hill, managing director for Radioplayer. “The Radioplayer Reference Radio shows that radio can be simple, smart and sexy in the connected cars of the future.”

Anna Washenko