Mar 18, 2009 - Making radio a part of more consumer devices is one goal for the National Association of Broadcasters' FASTROAD program. It seems that some phone providers are listening.

Verizon Wireless recently added the Samsung Omnia to its list of supported mobile handsets. AT&T has added the LG Incite. Both devices include FM radio as one of their features.

NAB President and CEO David K. Rehr sent letters to the chief executives of the two companies applauding them on their recent inclusion of FM radio-capable handset devices.

"Providing FM broadcast reception capability in mobile handsets creates multiple benefits for broadcasters, mobile network providers and consumers alike," wrote Rehr.

A 2008 NAB FASTROAD report outlines the potential benefits that could result from an increase in the penetration of FM radio receivers in mobile phone handsets. The study concluded that mobile phone service providers, radio broadcasters, and handset manufacturers all stand to benefit from the expansion of FM-capable mobile phones, a platform that could reach 257 million American subscribers.