"Telamon" wrote in message
...
Manufacturers are starting to realize that the AM band is not necessary
in
multifuncition devices, and we are starting to see FM only devices,
particularly in the areas of media players, iPod and iPhone docks (mine
has
FM only), etc.

I don't think that is the reason. It is easier to implement FM because
it is in the range of 87 to 107 MHz. The digital noise is harder to
eliminate low frequency AM and loop type antennas are bulkier so if you
want to add radio FM is the easier way to go.

But behind everything is the knowledge that an AM -less radio will sell, but
one without FM will not.

Granted, there are lots of radios out there... but most people under 30
or
40 would not even think of going to AM in an emergency, since they have
no
familiarity with AM or what goes on there... and with news and talk
stations
moving rapidly to FM, there will be no service of value left there in
most
markets.

AMBCB radios are everywhere. Everyone is familiar with them even if they
don't normally used them.

If you ask the average person under 35 what AM radio is, most will give a
wrong answer or make a comment about it being what grand dad listens to, and
they have no idea what might be on AM... and with news talk rapidly moving
to FM, there will be no reason to listen in most markets.