In an Australian first, the commercial radio industry has officially launched a mobile app that allows consumers to live stream 250 Australian radio stations on the go.

RadioApp allows listeners to tune in to Australian radio from anywhere in the world, add stations to their favourites list and simply swipe to see what’s playing on other stations.

Listeners can also view a list of recently played songs, share what they’re listening to with friends, and even purchase songs.

More features are set to be built into the app in the future, including the ability to subscribe to podcasts.

Developed by Commercial Radio Australia (CRA) and All In Media, the app is part of the radio industry’s strategy to make listening to radio on smartphones much easier.

“RadioApp is the best way to stream radio on your smartphone because it puts commercial AM, FM and DAB+ digital radio stations, as well as ABC and SBS stations, all into one place,” CRA chief executive Joan Warner said.

“It’s about setting commercial rivalries aside and putting the consumer experience first, so listeners can simply swipe and listen to their favourite stations wherever they are.”

Southern Cross Austereo CEO and CRA board member Grant Blackley said there is a “very scattered view” in the marketplace at the moment, with different technology and different apps across different platforms.

“This brings it all together and makes it easy for the listener, and that’s going to benefit the industry,” he said.

ABC Radio director Michael Mason said RadioApp is an example of the industry continuing to evolve to stay relevant to listeners.

“The ABC fully supports collaborative involvement in this innovative all-of-industry app,” he said.

SBS director of audio and language content Mandi Wicks said SBS Radio is keen to be part of RadioApp because it is a great platform to deliver its music and more than 70 in-language programs to radio audiences.

The industry will promote the app through a national marketing campaign that launches today, including radio and online advertising, social media and interior bus panels.