Listen via smart phone in your car

There are a number of ways to use your smart phone to listen to radio in car via your preferred radio and audio mobile app.

Many new cars now support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both of which provide a smarter and safer way to use your smartphone in the car. As well as allowing you to make calls, get directions, send and receive messages, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to access your apps simply and safely, so its easy to listen to radio on your preferred radio and audio app.

If your car does not come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can upgrade by fitting a replacement app integrated stereo. This will allow you to listen to your favourite stations via DAB, as well as via a station app. Find out more here.

You can also listen to your favourite station or radio app by simply connecting your smartphone to your car stereo with an aux in cable, a USB connection or via Bluetooth.

Download your favourite station's mobile app such as Absolute Radio, Scala Radio or Radio X, or your preferred radio and audio mobile app such as Global Player, BBC Sounds or Radioplayer, on your smartphone and then listen through your car stereo by connecting your smartphone one of the following ways:

Aux in
Most cars feature a 3.5mm aux in jack, either on the stereo unit or underneath it. This allows you to plug in an aux in or lightning cable from your smartphone directly into your stereo. You can buy an aux in or lightning cable in store and online at retailers including Currys, Argos, Halfords and Amazon.

Bluetooth
Most newer cars now come with built-in Bluetooth. You can connect your phone to your car’s Bluetooth by pairing it like you would any other device, and listen to your favourite station via app. Bluetooth is convenient because once paired, your phone will automatically connect to your car and it also has the benefit of allowing hands-free calling.

USB connection
Lots of cars now come with a USB connection. This allows you to connect your phone to listen to your favourite station and radio app - as well as charge up your device.

You’ll need a USB cable that you keep in your car, and depending on your device, this could be a lightning cable, a micro USB cable or a USB-C cable. Find the one that's right for your smartphone in store and online at retailers including Currys, Argos, and Halfords.

If your car has a USB connection, it is a great way to listen to radio via your smartphone. Not only does it provide a reliable connection and clear audio, it also charges your device and lets you make hands-free calls at the same time.

Safety first. Remember to keep your focus on the road at all times and it is illegal to hold a phone while you are driving - you must have hands-free access. Find out more from GOV.UK here and further guidance from the RAC here.