Online radio uses an internet connection, and the amount of data depends partly on the stream’s bitrate and how long you listen. If you use mobile data, a small amount of planning can help you enjoy a programme without losing track of your bundle.
Understand the basic calculation
Bitrate describes how many bits of audio data are sent each second. To estimate audio consumption in decimal megabytes per hour, multiply the bitrate in kilobits per second by 3,600, then divide by 8,000.
For example, an illustrative 128 kbps stream uses about 57.6 MB of audio data in an hour. At 64 kbps, the estimate is 28.8 MB. These are calculation examples, not a statement of Intsetse FM’s stream settings. Protocol overhead, loading the website and other activity can increase the total you see on your device.
A useful planning question is therefore not just “How much data does radio use?” but “How long will I listen, and what does my device actually record?”
Measure a short session
Check your device’s data-usage counter before listening. Open the Intsetse FM live player, listen for a known period and compare the reading afterwards. Avoid browsing other sites during the test. Browser totals may include every tab, so close unrelated tabs if you want a clearer estimate.
Repeat the check if your listening setup changes. Your own readings are more useful for budgeting than an estimate based on an unknown bitrate.
Keep track while you listen
Use Wi-Fi when it suits your circumstances, and check your mobile balance before a long session. Stop playback when you finish: muting the sound does not necessarily stop the stream from downloading.
The programme schedule can help you plan a specific listening window. For playback problems rather than data questions, see our online listening guide.