How to Listen to FM Radio on an iPod

Portable media players began with FM radio. And while battery technology has improved dramatically, our desire for FM radio reception has not changed. Let's face it, we rely on our local FM radio stations to keep us current with new artists and the latest albums. Without a doubt, the iPod has become one of the most desired gadgets in the world of personal music players, but one thing that it has always lacked is an FM tuner. But this is no longer the case. In 2006, Apple debuted an FM tuner compatible with the iPod. It is actually a wired remote with a built in FM tuner.

Instructions

1. Find a product that is compatible. The new Radio Remote, made by Apple, comes with a built in FM tuner that allows its users to listen to local FM stations. It is compatible with iPods, iPods with Video, and even the iPod Nano. The Radio Remote/tuner powers itself off of the iPod's battery and thus requires no further power supply.

2. Buy the Radio Remote. This is an accessory that many iPod customers have been expecting for a long time and can be found anywhere that iPods and iPod accessories are sold. It is still a hot item, and is not likely to be found on sale or at different price levels. The price at one store is going to be similar, if not identical, to the price at another.

3. Research similar products. There are a number of other electronics manufacturers who do a lot of business designing accessories that are compatible with iPod. These manufacturers are almost sure to start selling their own iPod FM tuners at competitive prices. However, many consumers feel more comfortable buying accessories that are made by the same company as their supplementary device.

4. Connect the Radio Remote. iPod has made a name for itself based on its non-complicated design. The FM Radio Remote continues this theme of simplicity and connects directly into the main port located at the bottom of the iPod. The connecting cord runs through the small remote/tuner and out into a pair of earphones.

Tips & Warnings

• Before purchasing an iPod there are a number of options to look into. If you are purchasing an older iPod, make sure that you investigate the strengths and weaknesses of that particular generation. Each iPod generation has had their share of complications, some worse than others.

• The FM tuner and remote feeds off of the iPod's battery life. This will diminish the amount of battery time that you may have grown accustomed to.

• Do not buy something online or off of an auction site that you can easily find at a local department or electronics store. iPods and iPod accessories can be found anywhere.