iHeartRadio Introduces “Lite Mode”: A Simple, Fast Way For Users to Toggle Between Full-Function Mode and “Just Essential” Content

New functionality enables listeners to switch modes depending on their usage and needs at any given time

New York, NY — October 29, 2026 — iHeartRadio today announced the launch of “Lite Mode,” a new product feature for the iHeartRadio app designed to give users the ability to simply and quickly toggle back and forth between full-function mode and the ‘just essentials’ Lite Mode depending on their usage and needs at any time.  

The Lite Mode toggle is located at the top of the homepage of the iHeartRadio mobile app. Available on both iOS and Android, Lite Mode offers a clean and intuitive interface that keeps users locked into their listening experience while enabling quick, seamless navigation between Presets, Recently Played, and Local Radio -- without ever leaving the screen.

“Radio is uniquely personal -- it’s about companionship. Our listeners sometimes want to browse and discover, and at other times they simply want to go directly to what they’re looking for.  This new ability to toggle between full functionality and Lite Mode, which has just the essentials, gives them the opportunity to make every experience the right one for them,” said Conal Byrne, CEO of the iHeartMedia Digital Audio Group.   

“We know that listeners have enormous loyalty to their favorite radio stations and personalities:  The average radio listener listens to 2-3 radio stations in a month vs. watching 40 TV channels in a month,” said Tom Poleman, iHeartMedia Chief Programming Officer. "Lite Mode serves a real purpose when listeners are trying to quickly get to the shows and personalities they’re passionate about and aren’t looking to browse the entire service.  We know that people use the iHeartRadio service at different times for different reasons, and the ability to seamlessly switch between those two functionalities serves that need.”

Key features of Lite Mode:

  1. Focused Now Playing Experience – A simplified interface centered on the content currently playing
  2. Quick Access Navigation – Easily switch between Presets, Recently Played, and Local Radio without changing screens
  3. One-Tap Activation – Toggle Lite Mode on or off instantly from the top of the app
  4. Designed for Speed & Clarity – Streamlined design for faster, more intuitive listening

About iHeartMedia, Inc.

iHeartMedia, Inc. [Nasdaq: IHRT] is the leading audio media company in America, with nine out of ten Americans listening to iHeart broadcast radio in every month. iHeart's broadcast radio assets alone have a larger audience in the U.S. than any other media outlet and over four times the ad-enabled audience of the largest digital only audio service. iHeart is the largest podcast publisher according to both Podtrac and Triton, with more downloads than the next two podcast publishers combined, has the most recognizable live events across all genres of music, has the number one social footprint among audio players, has the highest-reach and most engaged influencers, and is the only fully integrated audio ad tech solution across broadcast, streaming and podcasts. The company continues to leverage its strong audience connection and unparalleled consumer reach to build new platforms, products and services. Visit iHeartMedia.com for more company information.