News

Germany is preparing to launch its second national multiplex, which will host up to 16 commercial stations. According to the latest reports, the first tests ahead of the launch have already started taking place across a number of states in Germany.

RadioDNS have launched new Radio Metadata Terms. The Terms is a template agreement between a broadcaster (content provider) and a radio device manufacturer. It describes what is allowed to be done with metadata and content, and is relevant to both broadcasters and manufacturers.

The initiative, promoted by the party Compromís, is in the Senate in the amendment period until September 17. The concrete measures are expected to be discussed later in the Committee on Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation.

The campaign underlines the important role visual information now plays in providing a positive digital radio experience for drivers – and it offers guidance to broadcasters on how to use information they already have in the form of metadata to provide a richer experience for the driver.

WorldDAB is launching a campaign with the support of its Automotive User Experience (UX) Group members to encourage broadcasters to use their visual assets to keep digital radio prominent in car dashboards.

Radio is facing increasing competition in the car. Radio has to be seen as well as heard. One of the best ways for broadcasters to secure their place on the dashboard screen is to provide metadata. Broadcasters are responsible for providing metadata into the car to ensure that their stations look as good as they sound to the driver. This information sheet will tell you what metadata is, why it’s important and what you as broadcasters need to do to provide the correct metadata.

WorldDAB and the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU) have announced final speaker lineup for their technical webinar series from September 15 to 17. The webinar is aimed at broadcasters and technical experts in the radio industry who are implementing or planning the rollout of DAB+ digital radio.

39% of listening in Switzerland now takes place on DAB+, while 64% of all listening is done on digital platforms. Digital radio is also more popular than FM radio amongt Swiss drivers, claiming 55% of all listening.

Swiss advertising customers can now use “DAB Display Ad” to stream their message directly into the car. The Zurich digital agency TheIndustry and the Swiss DAB+ network operator Digris have developed the new advertising platform including a fully automated booking system. Three high-profile companies already run national campaigns - insurer Smile.direct, coffee manufacturer Lattesso and healthcare provider Seeklinik Brunnen.

According to the latest plan revealed by Swiss broadcasters at Swiss RadioDay the phase-off of FM services will take place in stages - starting with SRG switchoff of FM services in August 2022, which will then be followed by private radio stations in January 2023.