Edison Research’s latest Infinite Dial Report reveals exciting trends in Audio, highlighting valuable opportunities for advertisers looking to connect with engaged audiences.

Online Audio has reached an impressive new milestone, with 79% of Americans now tuning in each month. This reflects steady, strong growth from just 5% in 2000, underscoring Audio’s consistent appeal. Interestingly, the 55+ age group is now the fastest-growing segment, jumping from 52% last year to 63% today. This trend shows that online Audio isn’t just for younger listeners anymore, offering advertisers a wider demographic reach than ever before.

Podcast listening also continues to soar, reaching an all-time high of 48% monthly listenership. Adding those who watch video podcasts pushes engagement even higher to 55%. Crucially, this growth hasn’t reduced Audio-only podcast listening. The 55+ demographic again shows significant momentum, increasing from 27% last year to 38% now, indicating podcasts’ growing appeal to older listeners.

In-car media consumption continues to evolve, driven by smartphone integration systems such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. According to respondents, usage rose significantly from 24% in 2024 to 33% in 2025. Despite this growth, AM/FM radio remains the preferred choice across most age groups, especially among ages 35-54 (78%) and 55+ (84%), with solid engagement even among younger listeners aged 18-34 at 54%.

Podcasts are also gaining meaningful ground in the car, with monthly listening reaching 48% among the 18-34 demo and 40% among those aged 35-54. Even the 55+ segment, historically slower to adopt new media forms, has seen podcast listening rise notably to 13%. This demonstrates podcasts’ significant presence and growing potential for advertisers targeting diverse, in-car audiences.

Overall, the Infinite Dial Report paints a vibrant picture of Audio’s ongoing popularity and evolution. For advertisers, this means exciting opportunities to reach diverse, dedicated, and expanding audiences through a variety of Audio channels.