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Acoustic Energy's (AE) Internet radio, which draws its programmes from the Internet via a Wifi link, does not at first sight seem like a winner when you can buy an FM receiver for a fiver and a digital (DAB) model for less than £50.
AE points out that the estimated 10,000 stations you can access on the web are far more than you can get on DAB, but there is nothing to stop you reaching them through your PC.
However, until the ergonomics of home networks improve, your average granny is not about to access her media server from any room in the house and instruct it to contact the station of her choice.
But she could access her favourites on this web radio, which has presets just like a standard model.
There will certainly be a market for this device among exiles who want single-click access to their home stations.
But it will appeal to anyone who has ever been touched by the romance of short-wave radio, which allows you to eavesdrop on exotic places all over the world in real time.
And the web, unlike short wave, is not prone to static and fading.
The device is linked to a dedicated radio portal and makes station browsing as easy as is possible given the limitations of its 6cm x 2cm monochrome display.
You can choose a station by country or genre, and clicking your way through the menus is no more difficult than using a tuning dial.
The device will also play mp3, wma or Real Audio files residing on a linked PC.
It does have drawbacks though. It is mains driven, so you have to use it near a power socket, while stations take longer to access than on a standard radio.
Furthermore, the sound occasionally drops out for a couple of seconds. But these are minor compared to the delight of have an easy-to-use ear on the world.
See also:
Search giant acquires radio advertising specialist for $1.2bn 18 Jan 2006
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