Chinese vacuum tube radios made in 1964. [www.cnr.cn]

1969-1979: Radio -- A Necessity of Bridegrooms' Betrothal Gifts

In the 1970s, radios became an essential part of life for many Chinese, because they were the only way for them to communicate with the outside world in a closed society. People dreamed of listening to the radio in their spare time. Moreover, radios, watches, bicycles and sewing machines became the four betrothal gifts of a bridegroom, although it was difficult for most impoverished young men at that time to afford them.

1980-1999: Great Changes in China's Radio Industry

In the late 1970s, China started its economic reforms, and living standards gradually improved. Radios became common even in remote rural areas.

Radio broadcasts had also changed greatly, and people could enjoy more wonderful programs. Children listened to stories, while their parents listened to news and weather reports, and senior citizens tuned into to traditional Chinese operas.

Since the 1980s, radios have been gradually replaced by television sets, tape recorders, Walkmans and video compact discs. Although many domestic radio factories closed down in the late 1990s, some companies such as Desun in south China's Guangdong Province started manufacturing new radio models that became top brands. As China's economic development continued, more Chinese began to purchase automobiles and car radios gained increasing popularity.

2000-2009: New Spring for Old Broadcasts

At the beginning of the 21st century, more Chinese started using computers and the internet, which have made it possible for them to gain much easier access to information than other media. Some scholars even predicted that the internet would finally replace traditional media, including newspaper, radio, and television.

So what did the radio industry have to do? First, in early 2000, broadcast stations in China began to establish their own websites and produce live webcasts to strengthen their communication with listeners. Second, modern technology such as digital signal processors (DSP) enabled televisions, MP3s players, cell phones, alarm clocks and watches to receive radio signals and broadcast programs.

Furthermore, new combinations of internet, television and radio known as "digital audio broadcasts" have been developed in China. Mobile TV, for instance, not only has higher quality audio and can receive photos and videos, but also allows users to choose their favorite programs at any time.

(CRIENGLISH.com September 15, 2009)