WorldDAB’s week at ABU Digital Broadcasting Symposium 2025

28.02.2025 by Bernie O'Neill

WorldDAB had a busy week at the ABU Digital Broadcasting Symposium (DBS) 2025, in Klang, Kuala Lumpur. Held every year, the DBS is the premier event that provides a platform for broadcasters and industry leaders in the region to discuss key advancements, challenges, and innovations shaping the broadcast and media landscape.

This year’s event had a significant focus on AI in broadcasting and media production, alongside the latest DAB+ developments. Here are some of the highlights of WorldDAB's activities, presentations, and key findings during the event.

Bernie O'Neill (third from left) on stage in the "Elevating Women in Broadcast Technology" session

WorldDAB exhibition booth highlights

WorldDAB maintained a prominent presence at ABU DBS with its dedicated exhibition booth, showcasing innovative advancements from key members, including Aldena, AVT Audio Video Technologies, Paneda, and RadioDNS. Attendees explored the latest developments in digital audio broadcasting and connected/hybrid technologies, reinforcing the pivotal role of DAB+ in the future of broadcast.

DAB+ Automatic Safety Alert (ASA) debut in the APAC region

A highlight of WorldDAB's participation was the premiere showcase of the DAB+ ASA feature. The ASA system was demonstrated to Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Communications, Ms. Teo Nie Ching, who gained first-hand insight into the technology’s capabilities. Key aspects of ASA include:

• Automation and regional adaptability: ASA operates autonomously and can be tailored to specific geographic regions
• Resilience of the DAB+ network: leveraging the reliability of the DAB+ infrastructure, ASA ensures consistent and secure delivery of safety alerts
• Upcoming receiver availability: radios equipped with ASA technology are expected to hit the market by mid-2025, offering expanded safety and communication capabilities in the APAC region.

WorldDAB's Lindsay Cornell presenting the DAB+ Automatic Safety Alert system

DAB+ updates and presentations by industry experts

WorldDAB experts delivered impactful presentations on advancements in DAB+ technologies, , highlighting their role in driving cost and efficiency efficiencies with DAB+ antenna, transmission, multiplexing and monitoring systems. Notable contributions included:

• Lindsay Cornell provided an in-depth overview of the ASA and its technical functionality.
• Dr. Les Sabel discussed strategies for accelerating DAB+ adoption, offering guidance for broadcasters and regulators alike.
• Paneda's Anupon Tajawanno shared updates on the DAB+ frequency plan and technical standards in Thailand, underlining the growing adoption within the region.

Anupon Tajawanno from Paneda speaks at the WorldDAB workshop

Key takeaways from ABU DBS 2025

• Exploring AI in Broadcasting

Broadcasters from across the region demonstrated a strong interest in exploring AI-driven tools and systems capable of transforming media production and operational workflows. Discussions highlighted AI's potential to enhance efficiency and personalisation in broadcasting. 

• Growing interest in DAB+ Automatic Safety Alert

Governments, regulators, and broadcasters alike expressed significant interest in the DAB+ ASA system, reinforcing the technology's critical role in public safety. Its introduction at ABU DBS marked a first step in driving awareness and engagement across the region.

• Looking ahead

WorldDAB is proud to have participated in the ABU DBS 2025 and looks forward to continuing its engagement within the APAC broadcast community. With plans to return in 2026, WorldDAB remains dedicated to advancing digital broadcast radio and supporting broadcasters across the region as they transition to digital radio.

To view the WorldDAB updates presented at the ABU DBS, visit our website.