(WICHITA, Kan.) — Congress heard arguments Wednesday for why cell phones need FM transmitters built in them from radio station owners. They said during an emergency, it's important to know what's going on to stay safe.
The committee hearing the arguments, the Committee on Energy and Commerce, also heard opposing arguments from groups arguing this is just a way for radio to be relevant, even though more and more people choose to listen to music streamed over the Internet.
Many cell phones already have FM transmitters installed in them, but they aren't as popular as others. The most popular cell phone, the iPhone, allows users to listen to the radio through apps. But to use them, you need a good data or WiFi signal.
Supporters of the move say that during an emergency, many people are trying to make calls or look up news on their phones which clogs cell phones towers. But if the FM transmitter was included in the phone, they'd be able to get important information without needing a cell phone tower.
