World RadioInstant

SomaFM

Listener-funded, advert-free channels out of San Francisco, Drone Zone and Groove Salad among them, going since the dial-up era.

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How to get the most from it

SomaFM sits in World Radio under Wander, filed as instant.

  • Just open it. It pays off within seconds, with nothing to read first.
  • It works on a phone or a desktop, so open it on whatever is nearest.
  • Turn the sound up or put headphones on — it needs audio.
  • No account needed — you can start without signing up.
  • Go in expecting something cosy and nostalgic.

About this category: Radio stations plotted on a map or sorted by decade. The fastest way to feel like you are somewhere else without leaving the tab.

Good for

  • A five-second distraction
  • Somewhere low-key to settle into
  • A trip back to the older internet
  • Killing time on your phone
  • Trying it with zero commitment

SomaFM: quick answers

Is SomaFM free?

Yes. SomaFM is free to use and needs no account.

Do I need an account to use SomaFM?

No. You can use SomaFM without signing up for anything.

Does SomaFM work on a phone?

Yes. SomaFM works on phones as well as desktop browsers.

Is SomaFM safe for work?

Yes, we file it as safe for work. It does need sound, so bring headphones.

How long does SomaFM take?

We file it as "Instant": Good within five seconds of loading.

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