News

IBC2013 has focused on the future of radio throughout the show. The session entitled “Internet Radio: Threat or Accelerator to DAB Digital Radio,” and organized by the WorldDMB Forum, offered a glimpse into where broadcast radio and the Internet are going. Held Monday Sept. 16, at 11:30 a.m., the free workshop drew a hefty crowd.

Volvo has teamed up with market-leading DAB specialists Pure to offer an aftermarket DAB radio upgrade for just £295, fully fitted at local dealerships.

Harris Broadcast unveiled a new family of Maxiva transmitters for TV and radio broadcasters at IBC, including its VAX range for VHF TV and DAB digital radio.

EBU Head of Radio Christian Vogg announced at IBC 2013 in Amsterdam that a memorandum of understanding was signed by eight leading European Public Service broadcasters. Commercial broadcasters in Belgium, Germany and Austria have undertaken to add their signatures as well. Vogg said by bringing together groups seeking to promote hybrid digital radio services for domestic radio sets, automotive receivers, tablets and smartphones (via open hybrid broadcast-Internet protocol standards, known as the smartphone initiative), this memorandum represents an important milestone in realizing the Euro-Chip initiative.

A new 10 part radio drama for the under 7s is to be broadcast on RTÉ's dedicated digital radio channel for children, RTÉ jr radio.

Absolute Radio will be broadcasting one end of the Christian O'Connell (pictured) Breakfast Show live from the new Wickes Huntingdon branch on Friday and giving away 100 digital radios.

Harris Broadcast’s new VHF solutions provide DTV and DAB digital radio broadcasters with efficient air-cooled platforms featuring PowerSmart 3D amplifier designs, power consumption optimization and cooling efficiency for best-in-class operation. Its vastly reduced footprint is particularly helpful for national broadcasters operating large networks from space-challenged facilities; or local broadcasters filling in coverage gaps across expansive areas.

Norway has started the rollout of DAB regional networks and 37 regional DAB networks auctioned off.

Willi Steul, director of Deutschlandradio woud like to see a clear policy commitment for DAB + by the media. On 6 September at the PTKO Press Forum in Berlin suggested a discussion on FM shutdown 2020/2025. "This would give a boost to digital radio." Digital radio via DAB + is the future, the future of radio is not on the Internet and "broadcasting must be available to all."

The ARD gives a positive assessment of their performance at the 53rd IFA in Berlin. The topics of HbbTV and digital radio found great resonance with the public.