DAB+ takes centre stage at IFA 2019

02.09.2019

IFA 2019 will see over 40 DAB+ receiver manufacturers showcase their latest products to over 250,000 trade visitors from more than 100 countries. As the rollout of DAB+ continues across Europe, strengthened by the commitment of the automotive industry, radio’s digital migration will take centre stage in the home entertainment, audio and mobility halls.

With over 75 million receivers sold globally, DAB+ is now clearly the core future platform for radio. Adopted by the EU in December 2018, the EECC directive requires all new car radios in the EU to be capable of receiving digital terrestrial radio by the end of 2020.

Norway, UK and Switzerland are de-facto in line with the directive, given that over 90% of cars in all three markets are factory-fitted with DAB+. Other markets such as Italy and France already have legislation in place to ensure that they comply with the directive by 2020, and other EU countries such as The Netherlands are actively preparing related legislation.

IFA’s host country Germany accounts for over 12 million of DAB+ receiver sales and growing, thanks to strong political support and collaboration across the radio industry. In a move to promote the implementation and uptake of digital radio in Germany, the Cabinet of Germany recently adopted a draft law requiring cars and certain consumer radios to be digital. The law is set to be in line with the EECC directive, requiring all new car radios in the EU to be capable of receiving digital terrestrial radio by the end of 2020.

Ahead of IFA Berlin, public and private radio stations in Germany are jointly promoting DAB+ by taking part in a DAB+ themed day on Thursday 5 September. As part of the day, broadcasters from across the country will be providing information about DAB+ digital radio, stations on air in Germany, solutions on display at IFA 2019, as well as highlighting some of the benefits of using DAB+ digital radio, both in and out of the car.

Download the WorldDAB IFA 2019 map indicating where to find DAB+ exhibitors at this year’s show.