End of an Era: NEXCO East to Retire AM Highway Radio for Smartphone App, Sparking Safety Concerns and Nostalgia

NEXCO East has announced a major policy shift that will see the retirement of its long-standing AM radio traffic information service, "Highway Radio" (1620 kHz), in favor of a consolidated next-generation voice app for smartphones. This transition of a piece of infrastructure long beloved by drivers has triggered a wave of surprise, anxiety, and nostalgia across social media.

Following the announcement, the most prominent concerns raised on SNS were regarding safety. While the traditional Highway Radio could be accessed with a single press of a button on a car stereo, critics argue that moving to an app could lead to distracted driving. "Are they forcing us to operate smartphones while driving?" one user asked, while others noted that although support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is expected, these systems are not yet universal across all vehicles.

Skepticism was also directed at the reliance on mobile data. Many pointed out potential issues with reception in long tunnels—such as the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line or the Kan-etsu Tunnel—as well as data caps and dead zones. While some suggested that ETC 2.0 systems provide sufficient information, others argued for the continued necessity of radio as a simple, low-cost medium, citing the high price of upgrading in-car hardware.

The reaction was not purely practical; there was a strong emotional component as well. Users flooded the internet with posts reminiscing about iconic jingles and sound logos, such as the old "Japan Highway Public Corporation, Highway~ Radio~♪" and the current "To the best way, NEXCO East." Many shared sentimental messages, linking the broadcast to memories of long-distance trips or the sense of relief the voice provided during late-night drives on the expressway.

Looking forward, feedback on the replacement app has focused on specific functionality, such as whether it will support background playback and if the various regional expressway companies will consolidate into a single app rather than separate ones. While some users look forward to the ability to check road conditions nationwide from the comfort of their homes, the general consensus reflects a sense of unease over losing the stability of a physical radio broadcast. The long history of 1620 kHz is seemingly nearing its final chapter.

The context

Highway Radio (1620 kHz) is a dedicated AM radio service in Japan that provides localized, real-time traffic updates to drivers on expressways. Managed by the NEXCO group (the privatized successors to the Japan Highway Public Corporation), these broadcasts are transmitted via low-power antennas installed along specific stretches of the road. Because Japan has very strict laws against using handheld mobile devices while driving (punishable by heavy fines and license points), the move toward a smartphone-based app is particularly controversial. Furthermore, AM radio has historically been a critical lifeline during natural disasters in Japan, making its phase-out a significant shift in the country's emergency information infrastructure.