News

The number of Germans who own a DAB+ radio has grown to over 11 million, and on average 2.5 million people listen to the service each day, according to an annual survey by distributor Media Broadcast. About one quarter of radio receivers in the home and cars support DAB+, and the digital format accounts for 14% of daily radio use according to the survey, which was presented at the recent IFA show in Berlin.

Radio devices haven’t altered much for nearly a century, but that’s fast changing. Automotive manufacturers are driving that change, using hybrid radio standards to create a more engaging experience for their customers – and broadcasters had better get on board if they want to be a part of it.

Radio World speaks to WorldDAB President, Patrick Hannon on the opportunities created by implementing DAB+ into your market. "For consumers, DAB offers new services and improved sound quality. For policy makers and regulators, it secures the future of radio. This is important not just for cultural and democratic reasons but the fact it’s free-to-air, with no gate-keepers, and a medium that can be relied upon in emergencies."

All 2018 models gain Mitsubishi’s Smartphone link Display Audio (SDA) and DAB radio. To complement the new smartphone technology afforded by the SDA system, the new centre console design has two USB ports and a mobile phone tray with removable padded liner.

WorldDAB has announced that Jon Branæs, Acting Director of Radio, NRK Norway, has joined the line-up of speakers at the WorldDAB session. Jon will give the view from the public broadcaster on Norwegian radio’s DSO.

The new model also boasts the NissanConnect five-inch touch-screen infotainment system, which has Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming, DAB digital radio and aux / USB ports and a rear view camera.

Entry-level T-Roc models will get LED daytime running lights, DAB audio, Bluetooth and 16-inch steel wheels.

Ahead of WorldDAB’s session at IBC2017, we speak to Graham Dixon, Head of Radio at EBU, on what he’s expecting from the show this year. Graham will be speaking in WorldDAB’s Advances in Technology session at IBC2017 on Monday September 18th.

On 15 September, P4, Radio Norway, P5 Stavanger, NRJ Stavanger, Radio Sandnes, P5 Bergen and NRJ Bergen will end on FM. NRK radio stopped broadcasting on FM in June.

We test six of the best top priced DAB radios ranging between 2,000-3,000 kroner.