Survey launched on smart speaker access for radios

A new survey is gathering evidence on how community radio stations access voice assistants such as Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri.

Seven sector organisations have joined forces to collect feedback from stations about their experiences working with Radio Selection Services ahead of new rules from Ofcom.

The survey, led by the Community Media Association, aims to inform the regulator as it prepares a Code of Practice under the Media Act 2024. The code will outline how companies providing Radio Selection Services should meet their duties when listeners request radio through voice assistants.

Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri are expected to be designated as Radio Selection Services under the legislation.

Responses from stations will help the sector explain how easily community services can currently make themselves available on smart speakers and similar platforms.

Community Media Association chair Vijay Umroa said: “Listening to community radio using Radio Selection Services is growing fast so it is critical that Ofcom has a robust Code of Practice in place.”

Vijay added the survey is intended to give the regulator feedback from the sector about stations’ experiences and encouraged operators to take part.

Rebecca Steers from the UK Community Radio Network said equal access to smart speakers is important as listening habits continue to shift towards digital platforms.

Ian Pinnell from the Hospital Broadcasting Association said voice assistants can help hospital and health stations reach people receiving care, adding that being available through a simple voice command is key for those audiences.

The survey is open until 5pm on Tuesday 14 April 2026.