The possibilities of sound in the media
Sound has been making its way into the media for several years. Podcasts, i.e. talk shows, have become more common, and new talk shows and podcast topics are constantly appearing. Even podcast versions of radio programs are cut to be listened to later. Physical books are made into audiobook versions, and at the same time, more diverse opportunities to consume literature than traditional books are ensured.
In the media, sound has been used for a long time, for example, in the form of a radio broadcast. Later, television also came along, where sound is also very important – could you imagine watching a movie without sound, for example? Music and sound help to strengthen the feeling conveyed to the viewer through the screen.
Media consumption during the coronavirus pandemic
The average Finn listens to media content with sound for 3 hours and 22 minutes a day."
According to a survey conducted by RadioMedia in week 15, media use and usage habits have changed during the coronavirus pandemic in all age groups and demographics. 62% of the survey respondents estimated that media use has increased compared to before. The coronavirus has changed the ways and situations in which media is consumed. As commuting has decreased, more and more people said that they listen to the radio more than before when doing household chores.
These figures from our recent study support the role of radio as a rhythm and friend in people's everyday lives, as stated in many previous studies – in addition to its role as a mediator of news and current information, radio is above all constantly present in people's everyday lives."
– Stefan Möller, CEO, RadioMedia.
In addition to radio, other forms of audio give rhythm to the day. The energizing effect of music is enjoyed several times a day. At the end of the day, you can immerse yourself in an audiobook and relax – maybe even fall asleep.
Podcasts are listened to on smartphones
Mobile use of websites has increased significantly in recent years. According to Statistics Finland, 97% or more of 16–44-year-olds in Finland used the internet on their mobile phone in 2019. According to a study by RadioMedia, podcasts are also listened to by far most on smartphones.
Playlist feature in media brings new dimensions
Media companies are striving to serve their customers better and come up with solutions to changing consumption trends. Voice is one such opportunity – in the rapidly changing media field, it will surely quickly become a prerequisite.
A playlist brings its own touch to listening to the news. By creating audio versions of the news and making it possible to listen to them as a playlist, it is also possible to consume content in a more versatile way. At the same time, news media is created as a listenable alternative to audiobooks, podcasts and music. The reader is also offered the opportunity to spend time in those moments when reading with the eyes is not possible or convenient. Interesting topics can be selected in advance and listened to at a suitable moment or during other activities. Ingenious, right?!