News

The Baden-Württemberg Communications Institute has submitted an application to initiate the procedure for the extension of the regional multiplex license in the southwestern state. The current license, which is due to end on 30 November 2020, is expected to be extended to 2026. Small-scale DAB+ trials are also set to take place in 2020 and beyond.

According to the general manager of Deutschlandradio Stefan Raue, the high costs and lengthy procedures associated with the development of 5G networks means the technology is not a viable solution for radio, and certainly not a viable alternative for DAB+. which is cost-effective, offers a high-quality listening experience, and is accessible to listeners free of charge.

The sixth edition of the Dutch national digital radio week is under way. Several marketing campaigns, radio giveaways and other initiatives are taking place this week to promote DAB+ digital radio.

Ofcom is proposing to make all small-scale radio multiplexes offer DAB+ services only. The regulator wants to amend the Digital Radio Technical Code to include the condition so that no original format DAB is allowed.

Hundreds of new local digital radio stations could start broadcasting in the UK from 2020, under proposals outlined by broadcast regulator Ofcom. Following successful trials, the regulator is now consulting on how it would implement Government legislation to create a framework for the licensing of small-scale DAB radio on a permanent basis. It would like to hear from interested parties by October 4th and intends to start advertising licences early in 2020.

The rapid rollout of DAB+ in France continues as regular DAB+ services have launched in Nantes. 41 DAB+ stations are now available to listeners in Nantes and the wider region of Pays de la Loire in the west of the country.

The Italian Communications regulator, Agcom, has approved a revision scheme for digital radio regulations in Italy. According to the revisions, which are subject to approval, private (DAB Italia/ EuroDAB) and public (RAI) network operators will be obliged to allocate part of their transmission capacities to independent broadcasters.

The Radio and TV Festival organised as part of the 50th anniversary of the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU), held in Tunis at the end of June, served as an opportunity to highlight the launch of regular DAB+ services in Tunisia, and the expansion of DAB+ in the Arab world.

In this interview, senior figures from the public and private radio industry in Germany - Deutschlandradio's Stefan Raue and Die Neue Welle's Willi Schreiner - highlight the strong growth and future prospects for DAB+ in Germany and across Europe.

Following initial launches in Paris, Nice and Marseille in 2014, and significant milestones achieved in 2018 (including launches in Lille, Lyon and Strasbourg areas), France is gearing up to launch DAB+ in Nantes and Rouen in the second part of 2019, while all eyes are already turning to 2020.