'Visual Radio' delivers text and graphics synchronized with the stations' FM broadcasts, such as the name and image of the artist or DJ on air or quizzes and competitions.
The cost of using the service varies, but is around 拢3 for 10 hours of listening.
O2 is the first network in the UK to offer the service, and Nokia is currently the only handset manufacturer to offer models with built-in Visual Radio capability.
O2 has put links for Visual Radio to its download services for ringtones and songs.
More content and functions will be added to the service in future, including gossip, artist information, news, traffic and weather information and the ability to dedicate songs.
James Cridland, digital media director at Virgin Radio, said: "Virgin Radio has continually led the radio industry with technological advances and Visual Radio is the latest in the long line of firsts.
"Visual Radio is the perfect complement to enhance the listening experience, adding the permanency of a visual medium to the immediacy of radio."
According to the latest Rajar figures, 7% of adults have listened to the radio via their mobile phone.
If you have an opinion on this or any other issue raised on Brand Republic, join the debate in the .
_1.jpg)
.jpg)