The channel specializes in contemporary and alternative music, focusing on showcasing new artists,[1] and features live concerts, news and chart countdown programmes.

Inaugurated on 26 April 1994, Antena 3 is distinguished by its promotion of new Portuguese music.

The station has discovered and promoted some of the most important contemporary Portuguese bands.

In 2015, the station was rebranded as "the entrance door of pop culture in the RTP universe".

[2] Over the years, Antena 3 has been controlled by Jorge Alexandre Lopes, Luís Montez, José Mariño, Rui Pêgo and (currently) Nuno Reis.